What causes Gilbert's syndrome?

General: People with Gilbert's syndrome are born with a mutated gene. Normally, this gene provides the body with instructions on how to produce an enzyme called bilirubin-uridine diphosphate glucuronyl transferase (bilirubin-UGT). This enzyme breaks down bilirubin, a waste product from red blood cells in the liver. When a person inherits the mutated gene, the body does not produce enough of bilirubin-UGT, and high amounts of bilirubin build up in the bloodstream instead of being excreted from the body.

Some experts believe that Gilbert's syndrome is simply a normal variation in the range of bilirubin levels.

Inheritance: Gilbert's syndrome is passed down among families. The mutated gene that causes Gilbert's syndrome is inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. This means that if one parent has the disorder, there is a 50% chance that his/her child will have Gilbert's syndrome. If both parents have the disorder, there is a 75% chance that the child will inherit the condition.

Factors that worsen symptoms: Several factors may worsen symptoms of Gilbert's syndrome by slightly increasing the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Examples include illnesses or infections (e.g. the common cold or the flu), fasting or skipping meals, menstruation, dehydration, or overexertion.

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