1. Are some people at more genetic risk of abnormal bilirubin levels than others?
Several inherited conditions including Gilbert’s syndrome, Dubin-Johnson syndrome, Rotor’s syndrome, and Crigler-Najjar syndrome can cause a raised bilirubin level. Of these four syndromes, Crigler-Najjar is the most serious. The first three are usually mild, long-term conditions that can be aggravated under certain conditions, but in general cause no significant health problems. Gilbert's syndrome causes a small increase in bilirubin, but no clinical problems other than having to be excluded as a reason for very mild jaundice. With prolonged fasting or general illness mild jaundice can occur in subjects with Gilbert's syndrome.
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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, and certain drugs can reduce the bilirubin level. In Gilbert’s, Rotor’s, and Dubin-Johnson syndrome, 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, for example gallstones, is often resolved by surgery to remove the blockage. Jaundice due to
cirrhosis is often a result of long-term alcohol abuse and may not respond well to any type of therapy, although to stop drinking alcohol and to have good nutritional food may improve the situation if the liver has not been damaged too badly. Cirrhosis may also be seen with chronic infection with hepatitis B and C and certain other inherited diseases affecting the liver.
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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 excessive alcohol consumption, drug
toxicity and eating a proper diet can help sustain a healthy liver.
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4. What are the signs and symptoms of increased bilirubin levels?
The presence of
jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, and generalized itching may be found in obstructive jaundice. More severe cases may include severe abdominal pain, anorexia, vomiting, and fever. Increased bilirubin levels may be a sign of another problem, such as cancer, and may be seen in conjunction with swollen glands or an enlarged spleen.
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