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High bilirubin levels often mean that your liver isn’t filtering bilirubin the way it’s supposed to. There are many causes for this in adults. In newborns, the cause is usually newborn jaundice.
Conclusion. What is Bilirubin? Red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. But, these cells eventually wear out after about 120 days. When this happens, they break down, releasing a yellowish pigment called bilirubin. This bilirubin needs to be processed and removed from your system.
What causes high bilirubin levels (hyperbilirubinemia)? Bilirubin might build up in your blood if: Your body breaks down too many red blood cells too fast. You might be overproducing bilirubin if you have a blood disorder, such as hemolytic anemia, that destroys red blood cells. Your liver is struggling to process its normal load of bilirubin.
This article defines bilirubin and examines the causes of elevated bilirubin levels in adults and newborns. It also looks at the symptoms and treatment options for high bilirubin levels.
In adults, high bilirubin may indicate an underlying health condition, such as gallstones or liver problems. This article discusses high bilirubin levels. It explains the symptoms and causes of hyperbilirubinemia and how it is diagnosed and treated.
Jaundice and asymptomatic hyperbilirubinemia are common clinical problems that can be caused by a variety of disorders, including bilirubin overproduction, impaired bilirubin conjugation, biliary obstruction, and hepatic inflammation. (See "Classification and causes of jaundice or asymptomatic hyperbilirubinemia".)
One common cause of elevated bilirubin is Gilbert syndrome. Gilbert syndrome is a harmless liver condition in which the liver doesn't properly process bilirubin. A healthcare professional may order more tests to investigate your condition.