In short
- Bilirubin is a yellow waste product that is produced when old red blood cells are broken down.
- The liver processes bilirubin, after which it is eliminated from the body through bile.
- An elevated bilirubin level may indicate a problem with the liver or bile ducts, or an increased breakdown of red blood cells.
- If bilirubin levels are significantly elevated, symptoms may occur, such as yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine or pale stools.
- An abnormal bilirubin level does not always cause symptoms and is often discovered during a blood test.
- A liver function blood test usually includes other liver markers, such as ALT, AST, gamma-GT and alkaline phosphatase, to provide a more complete picture of liver function.
- The results of a liver function blood test can help investigate possible abnormalities involving the liver, bile ducts or blood.
- Would you like more insight into your liver health? A liver function blood test can provide valuable information.
What is bilirubin and what does this level say about your liver?
Bilirubin is a substance produced when your body breaks down old red blood cells. Your liver removes bilirubin from your blood and helps eliminate it from your body through bile and stool. The amount of bilirubin in your blood can therefore provide information about how well your liver is functioning and whether there are problems with the flow of bile.
What does a high or low bilirubin level mean?
A high bilirubin level may indicate a problem with your liver, bile ducts or the breakdown of red blood cells. Your body may not be able to process or eliminate bilirubin properly. A low level is uncommon and usually has no significance for your health.
What symptoms can indicate an abnormal bilirubin level?
If your bilirubin level is too high, you may develop yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). You may also experience itching, dark urine or pale-coloured stools. You may otherwise feel well, but with more significant abnormalities you may also experience fatigue or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen.
What can cause bilirubin levels to increase or decrease?
Elevated bilirubin can be caused by liver diseases (such as hepatitis or liver cirrhosis), problems with the bile ducts (such as gallstones), or an increased breakdown of red blood cells (haemolysis). Certain medications and inherited conditions can also increase bilirubin levels. A low level is uncommon and usually not considered important.
What conditions can cause an abnormal bilirubin level?
Conditions that can affect bilirubin levels include hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), gallstones, liver cirrhosis, haemolytic anaemia (increased breakdown of red blood cells), inherited conditions such as Gilbert’s syndrome, and certain infections.
When should you consider having your bilirubin tested?
It may be advisable to have your bilirubin tested if you have symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, unexplained itching, dark urine, or if your doctor suspects that your liver or bile ducts are not functioning properly. Testing may also be useful in cases of unexplained fatigue or abdominal pain.
How is bilirubin measured and how should you interpret the result?
Bilirubin is measured using a finger-prick blood test. The result is given as a number, usually in micromoles per litre (µmol/L). Your doctor compares your result with the normal reference values. If your level is too high, your doctor may investigate the possible cause further. A normal level usually indicates that your liver and bile ducts are functioning properly.
How can an abnormal bilirubin level be improved?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes no treatment is necessary, for example in Gilbert’s syndrome. In cases of liver disease, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle: limit alcohol consumption, eat a balanced diet and only use medication as advised by your doctor. In some cases, medication or surgery may be necessary, for example if gallstones are present. Always discuss the most appropriate approach with your doctor.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from a doctor. If your symptoms persist or you are concerned, always contact your doctor.
