Bilirubin (Bili)

Bilirubin (Bili)

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment formed during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is processed by the liver and excreted from the body through bile. The measurement of bilirubin levels in the blood is an important diagnostic tool used to evaluate liver function and diagnose various health conditions.

Key Points about Bilirubin:

Definition:
Bilirubin is produced when hemoglobin from old red blood cells is broken down. It exists in two forms:

• Unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin: This form is not water-soluble and is transported to the liver bound to albumin.
• Conjugated (direct) bilirubin: Once in the liver, bilirubin undergoes a chemical change that makes it water-soluble, allowing it to be excreted into bile and eventually eliminated through stool.

Bilirubin Testing:

A bilirubin test measures the amount of bilirubin in your blood and can help identify conditions such as jaundice, liver disease, and hemolytic anemia. The normal range for total bilirubin levels is typically up to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for adults, with slightly lower levels for children and newborns [1][3].

Why Is the Bilirubin Test Done?

The bilirubin test is commonly performed to:

• Diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
• Investigate jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high bilirubin levels.
• Monitor conditions that may affect liver function or red blood cell destruction, such as sickle cell disease [2][4].

Causes of High Bilirubin Levels:

Elevated bilirubin levels, known as hyperbilirubinemia, can result from various conditions:

• Liver Diseases: Conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis can impair the liver’s ability to process bilirubin.
• Hemolytic Anemia: Increased breakdown of red blood cells leads to higher production of unconjugated bilirubin.
• Bile Duct Obstruction: Blockages can prevent conjugated bilirubin from being excreted properly [2][5].

High levels of bilirubin can lead to jaundice, where the skin and whites of the eyes appear yellow. In adults, levels above 1.2 mg/dL are generally considered elevated, while newborns may require treatment if levels exceed 15 mg/dL [1][4].

Symptoms of High Bilirubin Levels:

Symptoms associated with high bilirubin levels may include:

• Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue

If any of these symptoms are present, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation [2][3].

Conclusion

Bilirubin is a crucial indicator of liver health and overall metabolic processes in the body. Regular testing and monitoring of bilirubin levels can help detect underlying health issues early on, allowing for timely intervention and treatment.

Contact us today for personal laboratory interpretation for your Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine purpose!

For further reading on bilirubin and its implications in health, you can refer to the following source:

• WebMD. (2023). Bilirubin Test: High vs. Low Levels, Direct vs. Indirect. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmi.2023.01.001 [1].