Elevated bilirubin

Elevated Bilirubin

Elevated bilirubin, also known as hyperbilirubinemia, is a condition characterized by an excess amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the body's normal process of breaking down red blood cells. It is ultimately processed by the liver and excreted in bile, a fluid involved in digestion. Elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood can lead to jaundice, a condition that causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow.

Causes

Elevated bilirubin can result from several underlying conditions, which can be broadly categorized into pre-hepatic, hepatic, and post-hepatic causes.

• Pre-hepatic causes involve increased production of bilirubin, which can occur due to excessive breakdown of red blood cells, a condition known as hemolysis.
• Hepatic causes are related to the liver's inability to properly process and excrete bilirubin. This can be due to liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or genetic conditions like Gilbert's syndrome.
• Post-hepatic causes involve obstruction of the bile ducts, which can be due to gallstones, tumors, or inflammation, preventing bilirubin from being excreted from the body.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of elevated bilirubin is jaundice. Other symptoms may include:

• Dark urine
• Pale stools
• Fatigue
• Itching
• Abdominal pain

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of elevated bilirubin typically involves a combination of blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and a bilirubin test. Imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans may be used to assess the liver and bile ducts for any abnormalities.

Treatment

Treatment for elevated bilirubin depends on the underlying cause. For pre-hepatic causes, managing hemolysis or increasing red blood cell count may be necessary. Hepatic causes may require medication to treat liver disease or lifestyle changes to support liver health. Post-hepatic causes often involve surgical intervention to remove obstructions in the bile ducts.

Prevention

Preventing elevated bilirubin involves maintaining a healthy liver and managing conditions that can lead to increased bilirubin levels. Regular medical check-ups, a balanced diet, moderate alcohol consumption, and avoiding liver-toxic substances are general recommendations.