The Basics
Written by the doctors and editors at UpToDate � �
What is Gilberts syndrome? " � Gilbert's syndrome is a condition that causes a substance called "bilirubin " � to build up in the blood. � �
Gilbert's syndrome is caused by an abnormal gene that runs in families. People who have Gilbert's syndrome were born with it. � �
What are the symptoms of Gilbert's syndrome? " � Often, Gilbert's syndrome does not cause any symptoms. If it does, the most common symptom is jaundice. Jaundice makes the skin or whites of the eyes look yellow. � �
Jaundice is common in newborn babies. Babies with Gilbert's syndrome might have jaundice longer or worse than other babies, but doctors can treat it. In people with Gilbert's syndrome, jaundice can be triggered by a fever, physical effort such as hard exercise, stress, or not eating. � �
Is there a test for Gilbert's syndrome? " � Yes. Your doctor or nurse can do different blood tests to see if you have Gilbert's syndrome. If the doctor or nurse is not sure whether you have Gilbert's syndrome, he or she can order a test to check whether you have the gene that causes Gilbert's syndrome. But the gene test is not usually needed. � �
How is Gilbert's syndrome treated? " � Gilbert's syndrome does not need treatment. The jaundice goes away on its own, and does not usually cause health problems. � �
If you have Gilbert's syndrome, tell all your doctors and nurses that you have it. Also tell them about all the medicines you take, including over-the-counter and herbal medicines. Your healthcare team needs to know about your condition when deciding on medicines for you, because people with Gilbert's syndrome can have worse side effects from certain medicines than other people. � �
All topics are updated as new evidence becomes available and our peer review process is complete. � �
This topic retrieved from UpToDate on: Nov 04, 2014. � �
Topic 17219 Version 2.0 � �
Release: 22.8 - C22.208 � �
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