Gilbert’s syndrome is a benign and quite common condition which describes a higher-than-normal concentration of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a red-orange compound that is produced from the breakdown of unwanted red blood cells. In Gilbert’s syndrome, this bilirubin accumulates as the liver seems to have difficulty removing excess bilirubin, resulting in unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia or familial nonhaemolytic bilirubinaemia or constitutional hepatic dysfunction. While all ominous and dramatic-sounding terms, Gilbert’s syndrome is not a life-threatening or serious condition.

Typical symptoms
Gilbert’s syndrome may be asymptomatic – there may be no symptoms – but intermittent jaundice (yellowing of skin and sclera or whites of eyes) may be observed. Additionally, an incidental blood test might reveal a high concentration of serum bilirubin (>21 µmol/L).

Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Gilbert’s syndrome is generally a ‘diagnosis of exclusion’ inferring that it is diagnosed after a number of liver conditions – or other illnesses which might increase bilirubin – have been excluded.

Incidence
Gilbert’s syndrome affects approximately one person in 20, or 5% of the general population, many of whom go undiagnosed. It is a genetic condition, meaning it is thought to be hereditary.

Treatment
Treatment is not necessary, as it is a mild and benign condition. However, many people might benefit from a diet or lifestyle diary to identify what factors (overconsumption of alcohol, insomnia or stress) might trigger an intermittent jaundice episode.

Prognosis
Individuals with Gilbert’s syndrome can live healthy lives with normal life expectancies and no complications.