Bilirubin is a product that is formed when red blood cells are broken down or destroyed. It is an orange-yellow pigment that is responsible for the color associated with jaundice. Along with cholesterol and bile acids, bilirubin makes up bile, which is a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder that aids in the digestion of fats. Elevated bilirubin levels can be a result of increased breakdown of red blood cells, which is called hemolysis, or an incapability of the liver to remove the substance properly. Increased hemolysis or improper liver function can occur due to a number of conditions.
Hemolytic Anemia
Hemolytic anemia is a condition in which red blood cells are destroyed too early and too quickly. In a healthy individual, red blood cells can live for up to four months. In someone with hemolytic anemia, red blood cells may only live for a few days, according to the website Lab Tests Online. When blood cells are destroyed at such a rapid pace, the liver cannot keep up with removing them efficiently. This causes an elevated level of bilirubin in the body. Hemolytic anemia is usually a genetic disease that is present at birth, but in some cases it may be acquired later in life through blood transfusions or the use of certain drugs. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia include weakness, fatigue, lack of energy and pain. Treatments for hemolytic anemia include blood transfusions, bone marrow transplants and drugs that aid in decreasing the destruction of red blood cells.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is a chronic condition in which scar tissue gradually replaces healthy liver tissue, which blocks the flow of blood to the liver. When healthy tissue is replaced with scar tissue, the liver loses the ability to function properly and can no longer effectively remove bilirubin from the blood, which causes it to accumulate in the body. Cirrhosis develops gradually and can be caused by alcohol, hepatitis, bile duct diseases, drugs, toxins or genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis. Symptoms of cirrhosis include weakness, fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, jaundice, abdominal pain, bloating and itching, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The goal of cirrhosis treatment is to decrease the production of scar tissue with a combination of medications, lifestyle changes and alcohol avoidance. If left untreated, cirrhosis can progress into liver failure.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver that can be caused by infections, liver damage, certain medications and autoimmune diseases. In those with hepatitis, the liver cannot function properly due to the excessive swelling. Because of this, bilirubin levels become elevated. There are numerous forms of hepatitis and they can be acute or chronic. If the condition is chronic, it may result in liver disease, liver failure or liver cancer, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms of hepatitis include abdominal pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, fever, nausea and weight loss. Treatment for hepatitis depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
