What is amebiasis?
.jpg)
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that forms when red blood cells break down. It is produced in the liver as a natural part of the body's process for getting rid of old or damaged red blood cells. Bilirubin is then excreted from the body primarily through the bile, which is a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. From the gallbladder, bile is released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion and absorption of fats.
![]() |
Bilirubin |
There are two main types of bilirubin:
Unconjugated Bilirubin: This form of bilirubin is not water-soluble and is bound to proteins in the blood. It is produced when red blood cells break down and is carried to the liver for further processing.
Conjugated Bilirubin: Once unconjugated bilirubin reaches the liver, it is modified to make it water-soluble and then excreted into the bile. This water-soluble form can be excreted from the body in the stool.
Total bilirubin is the combined measurement of both unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin in the blood. The normal range for total bilirubin can vary slightly between laboratories, but it is generally around 0.3 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. It's important to note that the reference range may be different in different regions and medical facilities.
Abnormal levels of bilirubin in the blood can be indicative of various medical conditions. Elevated levels of bilirubin can lead to jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes, and may be caused by liver disease, hemolysis (excessive breakdown of red blood cells), or bile duct obstruction. Low levels of bilirubin are less common but can be associated with certain genetic conditions or malabsorption of nutrients.
If you have concerns about your bilirubin levels, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider who can interpret the results in the context of your overall health and medical history.
Comments
Post a Comment