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Lifespan’s A - Z Health Information Library |
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Gilbert's diseaseDefinitionGilbert's disease is a common disorder passed down through families.It affects the way bilirubin is processed by the liver, and causes jaundice. Alternative NamesIcterus intermittens juvenilis; Low-grade chronic hyperbilirubinemia; Familial non-hemolytic-non-obstructive jaundice; Constitutional liver dysfunction; Unconjugated benign bilirubinemia CausesGilbert's disease affects up to 10% of people in some Caucasian populations. The condition is usually noncancerous (benign). Symptoms
Note: Jaundice typically appears during times of exertion, stress, not eating, and infection. Exams and TestsAn indirect bilirubin blood test shows changes that occur with Gilbert's disease. TreatmentNo treatment is necessary for Gilbert's disease. Outlook (Prognosis)Jaundice may come and go throughout your life, especially during illnesses such as colds. However, it usually does not cause health problems. Possible ComplicationsThere are no known complications. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if you have jaundice or persistent abdominal pain. PreventionThere is no proven prevention. ReferencesBerk PD, Korenblat KM. Approach to the patient with jaundice or abnormal liver test results. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 150. Review Date: 4/23/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any
medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical
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diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911
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