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Posted On Oct 28, 2026

Updated On Oct 28, 2026

Icterus: A Physical Finding Or A Lab Value?

Internal Medicine

Bilirubin is a normal byproduct of the breakdown or destruction of red blood cells, and an excess of bilirubin in the serum leads to icterus (jaundice). Most clinicians use the word “icterus” to describe the physical manifestation of excess bilirubin in the bloodstream including yellowing of the skin or mucous membranes. How high does the bilirubin level have to be before seeing that? Dr. Cyndie Webster - a veterinary internal medicine specialist - explains: