Thank you for your question. Bilirubin that is bound to albumin in the
blood is called unconjugated bilirubin. Conjugated bilirubin travels from
the liver into the small intestine. A very small amount passes into your
kidneys and is excreted in your urine. This bilirubin also gives urine its
distinctive yellow color.
Certainly you should be worried about abnormal bilirubin levels as it
indicates abnormal bilirubin metabolism. There are several causes of raised
bilirubin levels, which are indicative of liver or gallbladder pathology.
Causes of raised bilirubin levels are:
- hepatitis
- obstructive jaundice caused by gallstones
- chronic liver disease
- bile duct inflammation
- and sometimes haemolytic anemia
The bilirubin levels should be interpreted by your physician in conjunction with other liver markers as well as other clinical and radiological findings in order to determine the cause of hyperbilirubinemia.
Best regards
Dr Quah
