TBIL

TBil refers to the total bilirubin level, a key component in blood tests used to assess liver function and detect conditions affecting bile production, processing, or excretion. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced primarily from the breakdown of red blood cells in the spleen and liver. It exists in two forms: unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin, which is fat-soluble and not directly excretable by the kidneys, and conjugated (direct) bilirubin, which is water-soluble and can be excreted in urine or bile.

Elevated TBil levels may indicate underlying health issues such as liver disease (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis), bile duct obstruction, gallstones, or hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells are destroyed at an abnormally high rate. Newborns often exhibit high levels of bilirubin due to the immaturity of their liver enzymes, a condition known as neonatal jaundice, which usually resolves without treatment.

Testing for TBil involves drawing blood and analyzing it in a laboratory. The results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or micromoles per liter (µmol/L). Normal ranges vary slightly by laboratory but generally fall between 0.3 and 1.9 mg/dL (5.2 and 32.7 µmol/L). Interpretation of TBil levels requires consideration of clinical context, as asymptomatic individuals may still have elevated levels without severe pathology.

Treatment for high bilirubin depends on the underlying cause. For example, liver diseases may require medications, lifestyle changes, or medical interventions, while hemolytic anemia might necessitate blood transfusions or immunosuppressive therapy. In newborns, phototherapy (exposure to special blue light) is often used to break down excess bilirubin. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are essential for managing conditions associated with abnormal TBil levels.