Total Bilirubin
Total Bilirubin is a blood test that measures the total amount of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced by the breakdown of hemoglobin from old red blood cells in the liver. It is then excreted from the body through bile. Total bilirubin levels are used to evaluate various aspects of health:
- Liver Function: Elevated levels of total bilirubin can indicate impaired liver function. Liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer can cause decreased bilirubin metabolism and clearance, leading to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood.
- Biliary Obstruction: Biliary obstruction, which can result from gallstones, tumors, or inflammation of the bile ducts, can prevent the normal flow of bile from the liver to the intestines. This obstruction can cause bilirubin to accumulate in the bloodstream, leading to elevated total bilirubin levels.
- Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells, leading to increased bilirubin production. Elevated levels of total bilirubin may be seen in individuals with hemolytic anemia due to increased bilirubin production from the breakdown of excess red blood cells.
- Gilbert's Syndrome: Gilbert's syndrome is a benign condition characterized by intermittent episodes of elevated bilirubin levels in the absence of liver disease or hemolysis. Individuals with Gilbert's syndrome have a genetic defect that impairs the liver's ability to process bilirubin efficiently, leading to elevated total bilirubin levels, particularly during times of stress or illness.
- Neonatal Jaundice: Total bilirubin levels are routinely measured in newborns to assess for neonatal jaundice, a common condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels. While mild jaundice is common in newborns and often resolves on its own, high levels of bilirubin can lead to complications such as kernicterus if left untreated.