Causes of High Billirubin

Overview

Bilirubin is a substance that is found in bile, a fluid that is produced inside the liver, and is the byproduct of red blood cells that are broken down by the body. Bilirubin is yellow in color. When a person's bilirubin levels become higher than normal, his skin and the whites of the eyes can take on a yellowish tint. The state of yellow skin and eyes is called jaundice. Normal levels of total bilirubin are between 0.3 and 1.9 mg/dL. Several medical conditions lead to higher bilirubin levels.

Newborn Status

Newborn babies often have high bilirubin levels and appear jaundiced during the first few days of life. Red blood cells are broken down by the infant's body during this time. Liver immaturity in newborns prevent the liver from processing the breakdown of cells efficiently. Bilirubin levels rise.

Bile Duct Obstruction

Blockages of the bile ducts to and from the liver can prevent bilirubin from being excreted by the body. When this happens, levels become abnormally high.

Liver Diseases

High bilirubin can be a sign of liver disease. People who are diagnosed with cirrhosis and hepatitis often test high for bilirubin and appear jaundiced.

Red Blood Cell Diseases

Diseases involving the red blood cells can cause high levels of bilirubin. Hemolytic anemia is an example of a condition in which the body does not have enough blood cells because they die off prematurely. Sickle cell anemia, a disease in which red blood cells are malformed, may also contribute to high bilirubin.

Injury

People who have sustained large bruises or other types of bleeds under the skin, may also be at risk of having high bilirubin levels, according to the National Institutes of Health.