Gilbert's Syndrome is an inherited disorder of the liver that results in an excess of bilirubin.
Bilirubin is normally present in the blood in small amounts. It is a normal by-product of the breakdown of haemoglobin from old red blood cells, and it is usually converted by the liver into a form that can be excreted from the body through the bowel. Excretion of bilirubin by the liver comprises a number of steps. Abnormalities at any of these steps can cause the blood levels of bilirubin to rise above normal.
People with Gilbert's Syndrome have an inherited abnormality that causes reduced production of an enzyme involved in processing bilirubin. As a result, a form of bilirubin (known as unconjugated bilirubin) accumulates in the blood, sometimes causing the yellowing of the skin or eyes.
People with Gilbert's Syndrome live a normal, healthy life which is comparable to the general population.
As it is an inherited disorder, children of affected parents may also be affected by the same disorder.