History of bilirubin can sometimes cause health problems. For example, a disorder in the processes in the liver can cause bilirubin to accumulate more than normal and cause jaundice in the skin. Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and eyes to turn yellow. Gallstones or liver disease can also affect bilirubin levels.
What is bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that occurs as a result of the breakdown of red blood cells. It is produced in the liver and removed from the body by being carried to the intestines with bile. It is normally found in a balanced form in a healthy body, but due to certain health problems, bilirubin levels may increase, causing jaundice.
How is bilirubin tested?
Bilirubin test is a laboratory test to measure the level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin test can be done in 2 different ways. The first and most common is a blood test. The other is the heel blood test used in newborns. In both cases, blood is taken from the patient. The blood is examined in the laboratory and the results are evaluated accordingly.
What is direct bilirubin?
Direct bilirubin is one of the 2 main components of bilirubin total. The other component is called indirect bilirubin. Direct bilirubin is measured as part of the total bilirubin test. Normal direct bilirubin levels may vary slightly depending on the laboratory, but are generally considered to be in the range of 0.0 to 0.3 mg/dL in adults.
What is bilirubin total?
Bilirubin total is a value expressing the total amount of bilirubin in the blood circulation. Bilirubin total is measured as part of a liver function test. This test is done to evaluate the health status of the liver. Normal bilirubin total levels may vary slightly by laboratory but are generally considered to be within the range of 0.2 to 1.2 mg/dL in adults.
What are the symptoms of high bilirubin?
High bilirubin (hyperbilirubinemia) causes yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, commonly known as jaundice. Symptoms of high bilirubin include:
- Itching
- dark urine
- light colored stool
- Stomach ache
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Fire
What are the symptoms of low bilirubin?
Low bilirubin (hypobilirubinemia) is a rare condition and usually does not cause any symptoms. It is often discovered incidentally during routine blood tests. Symptoms of low bilirubin are as follows:
- Pallor, yellowish color of the skin and mucosa
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Stomach ache
- Itching
This information is for informational purposes only. If you have a medical problem, please consult your doctor.