Abstract

Gilbert’s syndrome (GS) is an extensively mild condition characterized by periods of elevated levels of bilirubin in
the blood. The bilirubin is an orange yellowish tinted molecule which is produced when red blood cells are broken
down and this substance is eliminated from the body only after it undergoes bio-transformation in the liver which
converts unconjugated bilirubin to conjugated bilirubin. When the level of unconjugated bilirubin increases beyond
a determined point, the bilirubin pigment starts to discolour the cornea of the eyes (making them to appear light
yellow) and with higher levels the skin may also turn to yellow (jaundice). Gilbert’s syndrome also known as
constitutional hepatic dysfunction and familial non haemolytic jaundice. People with Gilbert’s syndrome have an
inherited abnormality that causes reduced production of an enzyme involved in processing of bilirubin. A
presumptive diagnosis of Gilbert’s syndrome is made when unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia is noted on several
occasions.
Keywords: Gilbert’s syndrome, bilirubin, jaundice.