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| Definition: |
A multifactorial inherited disorder that affects the way bilirubin is processed by the liver and causes jaundice.
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| Alternative Names: |
Icterus intermittens juvenilis; Low-grade chronic hyperbilirubinemia; Familial non-hemolytic - non-obstructive jaundice; Constitutional liver dysfunction; Unconjugated benign bilirubinemia
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| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
Gilbert's disease is common, affecting up to 10% of some Caucasian populations. The most significant symptom of this condition is jaundice. Affected individuals usually have no jaundice. However, jaundice appears under conditions of exertion, stress, fasting, and infections. The condition is usually benign.
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| Symptoms: |
Note: There may be no symptoms.
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| Signs and tests: |
A serial serum indirect bilirubin shows changes consistent with Gilbert's disease.
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| Treatment: |
Usually no treatment is necessary. The focus should be on the underlying condition resulting in the stress.
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| Expectations (prognosis): |
Jaundice may fluctuate and persist throughout the patients life but usually causes no health problems.
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| Complications: |
There are usually no complications.
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| Calling your health care provider: |
Call your health care provider if you have jaundice or persistent abdominal pain.
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| Prevention: |
This is an inherited disorder; there is no proven prevention.
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Review Date: 12/3/2001
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D. M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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