BILIRUBIN Meaning and
Definition
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Bilirubin is a naturally occurring yellowish substance that is produced during the breakdown of red blood cells in the body. It is a waste product that is formed when hemoglobin, the protein present in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen, is broken down.
As the red blood cells approach the end of their lifespan, they are removed from circulation and broken down in the liver. Within the liver, bilirubin is formed and released into the bile, a yellowish-green fluid that aids in the digestion and absorption of fats. From there, bilirubin is transported through the bile ducts into the small intestine and eventually eliminated from the body through feces.
In normal circumstances, bilirubin is efficiently processed and removed from the body without causing any harm. However, when there is an imbalance between the production and elimination of bilirubin, it can build up in the bloodstream and cause a condition known as hyperbilirubinemia. This condition is often characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, a condition called jaundice.
Bilirubin levels are commonly measured through blood tests to diagnose and monitor liver and gallbladder disorders such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and gallstones. Additionally, abnormal levels of bilirubin in newborns can indicate various underlying medical conditions, including jaundice of the newborn.
Overall, bilirubin plays a crucial role in signaling the health of the liver and the breakdown of red blood cells in the body.
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A reddish bile pigment, C16H18N2O3, identical or isomeric with hematoidin.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for BILIRUBIN
Etymology of BILIRUBIN
The word "bilirubin" is derived from several components. The first part, "bili-" is derived from the Latin word "bilis", meaning "bile". The second component, "-rubin", is derived from "rubigo", a Latin word meaning "reddish-brown color". Therefore, "bilirubin" can be translated as "reddish-brown bile". Bile is a yellowish-green fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, while bilirubin is a pigment formed from the breakdown of red blood cells in the liver.
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