Understanding Bilirubin Levels: What Bilirubin Level is Normal for Adults and Children?

Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the normal catabolic pathway that breaks down heme in red blood cells. It is a critical indicator of liver function and overall health. Bilirubin levels can be used to diagnose and monitor a range of conditions, including liver disease, bile duct obstruction, and hemolytic anemia. In this article, we will explore what bilirubin levels are normal for adults and children, and what abnormal levels may indicate.

Bilirubin is produced as a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells, which occurs in the spleen. The bilirubin is then transported to the liver, where it is processed and excreted into the bile. The bile then carries the bilirubin into the small intestine, where it is converted into urobilinogen and excreted in the stool. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate a problem with the liver or bile ducts, or an excessive breakdown of red blood cells.

Normal Bilirubin Levels in Adults

In adults, normal bilirubin levels range from 0.2 to 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or 2-20 micromoles per liter (μmol/L). Levels above 1.2 mg/dL may indicate liver disease or other health problems. The following table provides a breakdown of normal and abnormal bilirubin levels in adults:

Factors that Can Affect Bilirubin Levels in Adults

Several factors can affect bilirubin levels in adults, including:

• Age: Bilirubin levels tend to increase with age.
• Gender: Women tend to have lower bilirubin levels than men.
• Liver function: Liver disease or damage can cause elevated bilirubin levels.
• Bile duct obstruction: A blockage in the bile duct can cause bilirubin to build up in the blood.
• Hemolytic anemia: An excessive breakdown of red blood cells can cause elevated bilirubin levels.

Normal Bilirubin Levels in Children

In children, normal bilirubin levels vary depending on age. Newborns have higher bilirubin levels due to the breakdown of red blood cells after birth. The following table provides a breakdown of normal bilirubin levels in children:

Factors that Can Affect Bilirubin Levels in Children

Several factors can affect bilirubin levels in children, including:

• Age: Bilirubin levels tend to decrease with age.
• Liver function: Liver disease or damage can cause elevated bilirubin levels.
• Bile duct obstruction: A blockage in the bile duct can cause bilirubin to build up in the blood.
• Hemolytic anemia: An excessive breakdown of red blood cells can cause elevated bilirubin levels.

Abnormal Bilirubin Levels: What Do They Mean?

Abnormal bilirubin levels can indicate a range of health problems. Elevated bilirubin levels can be a sign of liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic anemia. Low bilirubin levels are less common but can indicate a problem with the production of red blood cells.

Causes of Elevated Bilirubin Levels

Elevated bilirubin levels can be caused by a range of factors, including:

• Liver disease: Liver disease or damage can cause elevated bilirubin levels.
• Bile duct obstruction: A blockage in the bile duct can cause bilirubin to build up in the blood.
• Hemolytic anemia: An excessive breakdown of red blood cells can cause elevated bilirubin levels.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause elevated bilirubin levels.

Causes of Low Bilirubin Levels

Low bilirubin levels are less common but can be caused by:

• Anemia: A decrease in red blood cell production can cause low bilirubin levels.
• Liver disease: In some cases, liver disease can cause low bilirubin levels.
• Malnutrition: Malnutrition can cause a decrease in bilirubin production.

In conclusion, bilirubin levels are an essential indicator of liver function and overall health. Normal bilirubin levels vary depending on age, and abnormal levels can indicate a range of health problems. It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your bilirubin levels or overall health.