Gilbert’s Syndrome

What is it about ?

Red blood cells have a limited lifespan. The bone marrow must therefore produce new cells throughout our life. The breakdown of red blood cells leads to the formation of bilirubin. The liver converts bilirubin and eliminates much of it via the intestines. Bilirubin gives stools their brownish color.

Gilbert’s syndrome is characterized by a deficiency, partly congenital, of the protein that transforms bilirubin. The level of untransformed bilirubin therefore increases in the blood. It is an inherited but harmless condition.

What is its frequency?

Gilbert’s syndrome is a very common condition that affects 3 to 7 in every 100 people. But only 1 in 3 affected people develop symptoms.

How to recognize it?

• The increase in the level of bilirubin in the blood can lead to jaundice. An episode of jaundice usually occurs for the first time in healthy young adults (20-30 years) after a period of fasting, alcohol consumption, physical exertion, weakened resistance, or illness. We recognize this mild form of jaundice to the yellowish coloration of the white of the eye.
• A sharp increase in bilirubin can also cause yellowing of the skin. The urine may become darker, and the stools lighter. Sometimes the person has vague stomach aches, nausea wherever she is more tired than usual, but usually the condition does not cause any symptoms.

How is the diagnosis made?

The GP can diagnose the condition after a blood test that shows a slight increase in the level of untransformed bilirubin, while other tests of liver function are normal. No further technical exams should be taken.

What can you do ?

• If you notice yellowing of the whites of your eyes or your skin, see your GP. He will start by asking for a blood test to find the cause of the jaundice.
• Gilbert’s syndrome is a benign, inherited condition and the sufferer is likely to be affected for life. It is therefore impossible to prevent it.
• And since the condition is mild, there is no need to consider lifestyle adaptations. On the other hand, it is advisable to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, as it can trigger symptoms.

What can your doctor do?

It is important that the doctor identifies Gilbert’s syndrome to avoid having to refer you unnecessarily to another specialist, or having to treat or monitor you for no apparent reason. As this is a harmless condition, the doctor will first and foremost reassure you.

Want to know more?

• Alcohol, the point on your consumption – Stop or else?

Source

Foreign clinical practice guide ‘Gilbert’s Syndrome’ (2000), updated on 12.05.2017 and adapted to the Belgian context on 02.07.2019 – ebpracticenet