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Obstructive jaundice (cholestasis) — MRCP Part 1 MCQ

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EasyGastroenterologyObstructive jaundice (cholestasis)MRCP Part 1UKMLAMRCGP AKT

A 64-year-old woman has new painless jaundice and pruritus. Dark urine, pale stools. Which pattern suggests cholestatic LFTs?

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Correct answer: B — High ALP and bilirubin with modest ALT rise

Cholestasis typically shows raised ALP and bilirubin with modest transaminase elevation. Isolated ALT/AST suggests hepatocellular injury. Isolated GGT is non-specific. Low ALP is not cholestasis. Normal LFTs would be unusual with obstructive symptoms.

Reference: CKS: Abnormal liver function tests