Gilbert's syndrome is a hereditary and benign liver disorder characterized by a genetic mutation that affects the production of the enzyme that converts indirect bilirubin into direct, resulting in the accumulation of indirect bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is that yellow-orange pigment that derives from the normal aging process of red blood cells, it is a waste product and, as such, must be eliminated from the body.
Diagnosis
The signs that lead to the diagnosis of Gilbert's syndrome are:
• Absence of other liver pathologies
• Recurrent indirect hyperbilirubinemia (normal values are 0.2-0.8mg/dl)
• Normal liver function markers
The diagnosis can be carried out using molecular biology techniques, in order to verify its presence at a genetic level.
Symptoms
Gilbert's syndrome is in most cases asymptomatic, with symptoms that can appear temporarily, even in the presence of stress, dehydration, intense physical exercise, or the menstrual cycle.
What may appear is:
• Jaundice in correspondence with the phases of increased indirect bilirubin
• Sub-jaundice at the level of the ocular sclera
• Tiredness
• Abdominal pain
• Itching
• Difficulty concentrating
Pharmacological therapy, when administered, involves the use of barbiturates for jaundice or phytotherapeutic remedies to support liver function, such as dandelion, turmeric, boldo, artichoke.
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