Levels of Bilirubin

The following are the levels of bilirubin:

  • Direct Bilirubin: This is the quantity of bilirubin that has already been processed by the liver and is ready to be eliminated from the body. A normal direct bilirubin level is less than 0.3 mg/dL, or 5.1 µmol/L.
  • Total Bilirubin: This comprises both direct and indirect bilirubin, which the liver has not yet digested. Normal total bilirubin levels vary from 0.1 to 1.2 mg/dL (1.71 to 20.5 µmol/L). Bilirubin is a chemical in your blood that is formed when old red blood cells break down. When doctors measure bilirubin levels, they look for two types: direct (or conjugated) and total bilirubin.

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

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What is Bilirubin?

Bilirubin is a yellow-coloured substance that is formed during the breakdown of old Red Blood Cells. It is primarily present in the liver. Bilirubin has a crucial role in cell protection. Bilirubin is an essential component of the body’s waste-elimination system. Excess bilirubin can induce jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Bilirubin is found in the liver in two forms mentioned below....

Direct Bilirubin

Direct bilirubin, also referred to as conjugated bilirubin, is a modified version of a chemical created when red blood cells are broken down. The enzyme glucuronyltransferase attaches glucuronic acid to bilirubin, making it less toxic and easier for the body to eliminate. Direct bilirubin dissolves in water....

Indirect Bilirubin

Indirect bilirubin, additionally referred to as unconjugated bilirubin, is produced directly by the breakdown of hemoglobin, a component of red blood cells. This kind of bilirubin binds to a protein called albumin, which helps carry it from the bloodstream to the liver. However, indirect bilirubin is extremely hazardous. So, in the liver, enzymes convert it into a less toxic version known as direct bilirubin....

Levels of Bilirubin

The following are the levels of bilirubin:...

Abnormal Levels of Bilirubin

When bilirubin levels are abnormally high, it can indicate a health concern that requires medical treatment. However, low bilirubin levels are usually not a cause for concern....

Difference Between Direct and Indirect Bilirubin

The direct vs indirect bilirubin in a tabulated form is given below:...

Conclusion – Direct and Indirect Bilirubin

To conclude, the difference between direct bilirubin and indirect bilirubin is discusses above. The direct bilirubin is a water-soluble type of bilirubin that the body can reject more easily. It is mostly prevalent in bile and plays an important function in waste elimination. On the other hand, indirect bilirubin is the first byproduct of haemoglobin breakdown. It attaches to proteins in the blood and travels to the liver for further processing. Indirect bilirubin is lipid-soluble and can be harmful in high concentrations. Both types are necessary for understanding liver function and diagnosing specific medical disorders....

FAQs on Difference between Direct and Indirect Bilirubin

What is the Difference Between Direct Bilirubin and Total Bilirubin?...