What does an elevated total bilirubin level indicate?

Elevated total bilirubin levels may indicate abnormalities in the liver, biliary system, or red blood cell metabolism. Bilirubin is a product of red blood cell breakdown and is normally processed by the liver and excreted into the intestines via bile. When total bilirubin levels are elevated, possible causes include: 1. **Physiological increase**: Associated with neonatal physiological jaundice, pregnancy or menstruation, intense physical activity, and other factors. Neonatal physiological jaundice typically resolves spontaneously within about 7 days after birth. Total bilirubin levels normally rise shortly after birth and then gradually decline. 2. **Pathological increase**: This may be related to various diseases such as neonatal pathological jaundice, cholelithiasis (gallstones), pancreatitis, hepatitis, and others. For example, in hemolytic jaundice, excessive red blood cell destruction produces large amounts of bilirubin that exceed the liver's capacity to process it. Alternatively, impaired liver function may prevent effective processing and excretion of bilirubin. Blockage of the biliary system (e.g., bile ducts) can also prevent normal bilirubin excretion. The exact cause must be determined through a comprehensive evaluation of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic test results. If elevated total bilirubin levels are detected, timely medical consultation is recommended.