Bilirubin Levels and Liver Health: How Liver Function Tests Help Detect Issues

What Is Bilirubin?

When we think about liver health, several factors are considered. Bilirubin is one such factor that can offer valuable insights into how well your liver is working. Bilirubin is a yellowish substance that forms when red blood cells (RBCs) break down in the body. The liver processes bilirubin, converting it from an unconjugated form (insoluble in water) into a conjugated form (soluble in water). This conjugated form then combines with other waste products to form bile, which is excreted from the body. Abnormal bilirubin levels can be an important indicator of potential liver issues.

Getting liver function tests in Bangalore is a smart choice for those who suspect liver issues. You can also opt for liver function tests at home to save time. Let’s explore how bilirubin helps determine your overall liver function.

Types of Bilirubin Checked in Liver Function Tests

Liver function test (LFTs) provide a detailed assessment of liver health by measuring various biomarkers, including bilirubin levels. LFTs measure three main types of bilirubin:

• Indirect or unconjugated bilirubin: This is the bilirubin that forms immediately after the breakdown of RBCs. It is not yet processed by the liver.
• Direct or conjugated bilirubin: After reaching the liver, unconjugated bilirubin is converted to its conjugated form, which can be measured directly.
• Total bilirubin: This measures the total amount of bilirubin in the blood.

Common Causes of Elevated Bilirubin Levels

Several conditions can lead to elevated bilirubin levels, including:

• Liver diseases: Conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or liver cancer impair the liver's ability to process bilirubin.
• Haemolysis: A rapid breakdown of RBCs leads to hyperbilirubinemia, seen in haemolytic anaemia and certain infections.
• Biliary system problems: Blocked bile ducts or gallbladder issues can lead to bilirubin buildup in the blood.

Monitoring bilirubin levels with LFTs is essential, as abnormal levels can significantly impact liver health.

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Interpreting Bilirubin Results: What They Reveal About Liver Function

Understanding the results of your LFTs can give insights into your liver health. Here's what elevated or decreased bilirubin levels may indicate:

• High indirect bilirubin: Could be caused by rapid RBC breakdown and may indicate haemolytic anaemia, sickle cell disease, or a reaction to a blood transfusion.
• High direct bilirubin: Suggests difficulty in clearing bilirubin and may indicate conditions like cholecystitis, cholangitis, or gallstones.
• High total bilirubin: Points to liver conditions such as cirrhosis, toxic hepatitis, or genetic disorders like Gilbert’s syndrome.
• Low bilirubin: May occur due to medications or could be linked to more serious conditions like kidney disease.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If your liver function test results are abnormal, it's important to consult your doctor. Abnormal bilirubin levels can indicate serious health issues requiring immediate attention. Early detection and regular monitoring through LFTs are crucial for maintaining liver and overall health.

Bilirubin is a key marker of liver health, and its levels can provide important information about how well your liver is functioning. Regular liver function tests, including bilirubin checks, can help detect liver issues early, allowing for timely intervention. If you experience abnormal bilirubin levels, consult your doctor to identify the cause and protect your liver health.