Is High Bilirubin Dangerous?

By Staff WriterLast Updated March 26, 2020

High concentrations of bilirubin in the blood may be dangerous because it may be the result of a medical condition. High bilirubin levels may indicate liver disease or that the bile ducts are blocked.

Bilirubin is a protein substance that is found in bile and excreted from the body. The substance is synthesized from recycled red blood cells in the liver and must be removed from the body. If the concentration of bilirubin is too high in the bloodstream, it may lead to jaundice symptoms, such as yellowing of the eyes and skin. Bilirubin tests can be ordered if a patient is showing signs of jaundice, if it is suspected that something is blocking his bile duct or if there is something is wrong with his liver.