If you would like to know more about Gilbert's Syndrome symptoms and diagnosis, and about Gilbert's Syndrome treatment, read the following article on Gilbert Syndrome for more information.
Gilbert's Syndrome can cause mild jaundice from time to time. It is usually harmless and does not require treatment. Gilbert Syndrome is due to a reduced amount of a chemical in the liver which processes a breakdown product of blood cells called bilirubin.
What is Gilbert's syndrome?
Gilbert's syndrome is a condition where the liver does not process bilirubin very well. It is sometimes called Gilbert's disease although it does not cause 'disease' as such. The liver itself is normal and the condition is usually harmless. The condition is named after the doctor who first described it in 1901.
What is bilirubin and what happens in Gilbert's syndrome?
Bilirubin is constantly being made. It is a breakdown product of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a chemical that is in red blood cells and carries oxygen to the tissues. Many red blood cells and haemoglobin break down each day, and bilirubin is one of the 'waste' products. Bilirubin is carried in the bloodstream to the liver where it is taken in by liver cells. The liver cells 'process' the bilirubin which is then passed out from the liver into the gut with the bile.
An enzyme (chemical) in liver cells helps the liver cells to process the bilirubin. People with Gilbert's syndrome have a reduced level of this enzyme and so a 'back-log' of bilirubin can build up in the bloodstream. A high level of bilirubin causes jaundice (a yellowing of the skin).
In people with Gilbert's Syndrome, the blood level of bilirubin can go up and down. Often the level is within the normal range. At other times it goes higher than normal, but not very high.
Who gets Gilbert's syndrome?
Gilbert's syndrome is a very common hereditary condition. About 1 in 20 people have this syndrome - but most will not be aware of it. It is more common in men than women. It is often first diagnosed in the late teens or early twenties.
What are the symptoms of Gilbert's syndrome?
- Usually none. The level of bilirubin in the blood goes up and down. However, this does not usually cause any problems as the level does not go very high.
- Jaundice. If the level of bilirubin goes above a certain level you become jaundiced (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes). Some people with Gilbert's syndrome become mildly jaundiced from time to time. This may seem alarming, but is of little concern if the cause is Gilbert's syndrome. The jaundice tends to occur most commonly if you are ill with another problem such as an infection or repeated vomiting, or during times of exertion or stress.
- Other symptoms are uncommon. The jaundice itself does not usually cause any problems. However, some people with Gilbert's syndrome report symptoms of tiredness, weakness, abdominal pain, and other symptoms which may possibly be linked to the syndrome.
Do I need any tests?
Jaundice (a high level of bilirubin) can be caused by many different diseases of the liver and blood. Therefore, if you develop jaundice you are likely to need tests to clarify the cause and to rule out serious illness. A blood test can usually confirm the diagnosis of Gilbert's syndrome as it shows a mildly raised level of bilirubin, but with all the other liver tests being normal. Rarely, other tests such as a liver biopsy may be done to rule out liver diseases if the diagnosis is in doubt.
What is the treatment for Gilbert's syndrome?
No treatment is needed. People with Gilbert's syndrome normally lead healthy lives. Life expectancy is not affected. Mild jaundice may recur from time to time for short periods, but usually causes no health problems.
Further help and information
British Liver Trust
2 Southampton Road Ringwood BH24 1HY
Tel: 0870 770 8028 Web: www.britishlivertrust.org.uk
©EMIS and PIP 2006
