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Bilirubin
Also known as: Total bilirubin, TBIL, Neonatal bilirubin, Direct bilirubin (conjugated bilirubin), Indirect bilirubin (unconjugated bilirubin) Formal name: Bilirubin Related tests: Liver panel, Gamma-glutamyl transferase, Alkaline phosphatase, Aspartate aminotransferase, Alanine aminotransferase, Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C
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Common Questions
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1. Are some people more at genetic risk of abnormal bilirubin levels?
2. How do you treat abnormal bilirubin levels and/or jaundice?
3. Is there anything I can do to maintain healthy bilirubin levels?
1. Are some people more at genetic risk of abnormal bilirubin levels?
Several inherited chronic conditions include Gilbert’s syndrome, Dubin-Johnson syndrome, Rotor’s syndrome, and Crigler-Najjar syndrome. Of these four syndromes, Crigler-Najjar is the most serious and may result in death. The first three are usually mild, chronic conditions that can be aggravated under certain conditions but in general cause no significant health problems.
2. How do you treat abnormal bilirubin levels and/or jaundice?
Treatment depends on the cause of the jaundice. In newborns, phototherapy (special light therapy), blood exchange transfusion in severe cases, and certain drugs may reduce the bilirubin level. In Gilbert’s, Rotor’s, and Dubin-Johnson syndromes, no treatment is usually necessary. Crigler-Najjar syndrome may respond to certain enzyme drug therapy or may require a liver transplant. Jaundice caused by an obstruction often is resolved by surgery to remove the blockage. Jaundice due to cirrhosis is often a result of long-term viral hepatitis or alcohol abuse and may not respond well to any type of therapy. Anti-viral medications, abstaining from alcohol, avoiding other potential liver toxins, and good nutrition may improve the situation if the liver has not been damaged too badly.
3. Is there anything I can do to maintain healthy bilirubin levels?
While there is no one specific thing, it is clear that excessive and long- term alcohol consumption can lead to cirrhosis and a permanently damaged liver. Avoiding alcohol and over-use/long-term use of drugs and eating a proper diet may help to sustain a healthy liver. Blockages due to duct stones, pancreatic cancer, or cysts may require surgery.
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This article was last reviewed on
May 31, 2008.
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