Genetic Liver Diseases

Treatment of Gilbert Syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is a benign disorder, which affects the way bilirubin (a pigment produced when the liver processes waste products) is processed by the liver. It causes jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of eyes.

Diagnosis

Gilbert syndrome is common, affecting up to 10 percent of some Caucasian populations. The most common symptom is intermittent jaundice. Mild jaundice (yellowing of skin and whites of eyes) appears under conditions of exertion, stress, fasting, and infections. The condition is usually benign (that is, it causes no medical problems). Patients may experience bouts of abdominal pain, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness after suffering an infection. Blood tests are usually done simply to make a diagnosis and to exclude serious liver disease.

Treatment

Phenobarbitone in small doses can sometimes help clear the jaundice. Usually no treatment is necessary. The focus is on making sure that no underlying condition is causing the jaundice, for instance hepatitis.