Difference Between Direct and Indirect Bilirubin
The direct vs indirect bilirubin in a tabulated form is given below:
|
Parameters |
Direct Bilirubin |
Indirect Bilirubin |
|---|---|---|
|
Description |
It is a modified form of bilirubin produced when the body breaks down hemoglobin. |
The body produces indirect bilirubin when it breaks down hemoglobin. |
|
Direct bilirubin is also called Conjugated bilirubin. |
Indirect bilirubin is also called Unconjugated bilirubin. |
|
|
Transporter |
Direct bilirubin does not need a protein carrier for transportation. |
It moves from the bloodstream to the liver via attaching to albumin. |
|
Solubility |
It is soluble in water and can be released in the bile. |
It is not soluble in water and cannot be released in the bile. |
|
The liver converts bilirubin into direct bilirubin. |
Indirect bilirubin is generated when red blood cells break down. |
|
|
Normal Range |
The normal range is normally between 0.0 and 0.3 mg/dL. |
The normal range is normally between 0.2 to 0.8 mg/dL. |
|
Side effects |
Elevated levels may indicate liver injury or occlusion of the bile ducts. |
Elevated levels may indicate hemolytic anaemia or other disorders that induce excessive destruction of red blood cells. |
Difference between Direct and Indirect Bilirubin
The difference between direct and indirect bilirubin lies in the fact that direct bilirubin is the type of bilirubin the human body can easily remove. It is similar to waste that the body can easily handle and eliminate, but indirect bilirubin is bilirubin combined with a protein in the bloodstream. It makes it tough for the body to eliminate. It is comparable to bilirubin, which requires a specific host before getting out of the body. In this article, we will look into the differences between direct and indirect bilirubin.
Table of Content
- What is Bilirubin?
- Direct Bilirubin
- Indirect Bilirubin
- Levels of Bilirubin
- Abnormal Levels of Bilirubin
- Difference Between Direct and Indirect Bilirubin