Gilbert syndrome: what is it? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of Disease

The disease accompanying the impairment of bilirubin metabolism was first described in 1901 by AN Gilbert (Gilbert). According to statistics, about 5-7% of the world population faces such a disease. So why does Gilbert's syndrome arise, what is it and what are its symptoms? Is it possible to cure the disease completely?

Gilbert syndrome: what is it?

In order to understand what this disease is related to, it is necessary to first clarify some features of bilirubin metabolism. This is a yellow pigment, which is formed in the liver by the breakdown of hemoglobin (respiratory pigment of the blood). It is in the liver tissues that a free yellow pigment transforms into a bound form. Such bound bilirubin enters the gallbladder and then, along with the bile, moves to the digestive tract and is removed along with the feces. With this pathology, unbound bilirubin increases in the blood.

Gilbert syndrome is most often diagnosed in African countries, although it is common among representatives of other nationalities. By the way, men suffer from this ailment about 10 times more often than women.

Gilbert syndrome: what is it and what are its causes?

This is a hereditary disease that is associated with the activity of certain genes. As a result, in the hepatocytes of the liver, the production of an insufficient amount of glucuronyl transferase. It is this enzyme that is responsible for the binding of bilirubin to glucuronic acid. Accordingly, a deficiency of this biologically active substance leads to an increase in the level of free yellow pigment in the blood.

Gilbert syndrome: what is it and what are its symptoms?

The main symptom of this ailment is jaundice. It is worth noting that the aggravation of the disease can be triggered by various factors. In particular, the deterioration of the human condition is observed as a result of severe stress, physical exhaustion, malnutrition or starvation, the use of certain medications, as well as previously suffered inflammatory disease.

In connection with an increase in the concentration of free bilirubin in the blood appears icterus of the skin and sclera. As the disease develops, there may be other symptoms. Some patients complain of headaches, worsening of concentration, confusion, dizziness, memory impairment. Sometimes there is an obsessive feeling of anxiety or fear right up to panic attacks, and sometimes depression and insomnia.

Naturally, there are also disorders of the digestive system - a loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, cramping in the gallbladder, liver soreness, bloating and diarrhea. In some cases, intolerance of certain products, for example, carbohydrates, develops.

If there is no timely help, symptoms of cardiac or respiratory failure, tremor, severe thirst, unceasing vomiting, muscle pain, enlarged lymph nodes. In the most severe cases, acute liver failure develops.

Gilbert's syndrome: treatment

Unfortunately, it is impossible to cure this genetic disease at the moment. On the other hand, most often the disease proceeds benignly - many people do not even suspect about their illness for decades. Medical intervention is required only during periods of exacerbation. Therefore, with the first signs of jaundice, you should see a doctor. Bed rest, plenty of drinking, taking vitamins and the right diet will help to normalize the metabolism. In some cases, the patient is prescribed phenobarbital, which lowers the level of bilirubin (you can not use the medicine on your own, as with improper dosage complications up to liver failure are possible). The diet should not include foods containing preservatives and alcohol - food should be fresh and, preferably, steamed.