What are the causes and risks of elevated total bilirubin?
Disease description:
I noticed my son's palms turned yellow, and he seemed unusually tired and uninterested in things. After going to the hospital for a checkup, the doctor said his total bilirubin level was slightly elevated. I would like to know the causes and potential risks associated with high total bilirubin.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun
Elevated total bilirubin levels may be caused by various factors, including liver insufficiency, bile duct obstruction, hemolytic disorders, and inherited metabolic defects (such as Gilbert's syndrome). The risks associated with elevated total bilirubin depend on the degree and duration of the increase.
Mild elevations in bilirubin may not cause any symptoms. However, if bilirubin levels are significantly increased or persist over time, they may lead to jaundice, liver damage, and other complications such as cholelithiasis, cirrhosis, or even liver failure.
Therefore, when elevated total bilirubin is detected, physicians conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation to identify the underlying cause and implement appropriate treatment measures.
