What does it mean to have high bilirubin? We’ll go over the meaning, symptoms, and causes of high bilirubin levels, as well as how to treat it. High bilirubin levels (hyperbilirubinemia) may be caused by blood, liver, or bile duct disorders and can manifest with jaundice.

Understanding the Context

Learn more. Bilirubin is a substance produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin (bil-ih-ROO-bin) passes through the liver and is eventually excreted out of the body. Higher than usual levels of bilirubin may mean different types of liver or bile duct problems.

Key Insights

Bilirubin is an orange-yellow bile pigment formed during the normal breakdown of the red blood cells. Learn about the elevated bilirubin level and its problems. High bilirubin levels cause jaundice and dark urine due to liver damage or gallstones. Liver disease and gallstones can increase bilirubin in blood.