Definition of Gilbert syndrome
Gilbert syndrome: A common, harmless genetic condition in which a
liver enzyme essential to the disposal of bilirubin (the chemical that results
from the normal breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells) is abnormal. The
abnormality is caused by a mutation the UDP-glucuronosyltransferase
gene.
This enzyme abnormality results in mild elevations of bilirubin pigment in the blood,
and the elevated bilirubin pigment can sometimes cause mild yellowing (jaundice) of the eyes.
Gilbert's syndrome is a frequent finding in people in North America and
Europe. The condition is usually detected serendipitously (purely by accident)
in the course of routine blood screening. People with Gilbert syndrome are
otherwise entirely normal with no other signs or symptoms and their liver enzyme
levels in blood serum are also entirely normal. Treatment is not necessary.
The condition has also been referred to as
constitutional hepatic dysfunction and familial nonhemolytic jaundice.
Last Editorial Review: 1/5/2009Common Misspellings: gilbert syndrone
- Liver Blood Tests - Learn about liver blood tests used to detect liver damage disease such as fatty liver, cirrhosis, hepatitis, Tylenol liver damage, and more. This includes measuring the aminotransferases enzymes (AST and ALT levels)
- Jaundice - Jaundice Jaundice is the yellowish staining of the skin and the whites of the eye. Jaundice has many causes.
- Puberty - Read about the physical changes of puberty (growth spurt, pubic hair, period, zits, breast development), hormones (testosterone, estrogen) and sexual maturity stages.
Latest Medical News
Back to MedTerms online medical dictionary A-Z List
