The disease accompanying impaired bilirubin metabolism was first described in 1901 by A.N. Gilbert (Gilbert). According to statistics, approximately 5-7% of the world population faces a similar disease. So why does Gilbert's syndrome arise, what are these and what are its symptoms? Is it possible to completely cure an ailment?
Gilbert's syndrome: what is it?
In order to understand what exactly this disease is associated with, it is worth first finding out some features of bilirubin metabolism. This is a yellow pigment that forms in the liver through the breakdown of hemoglobin (respiratory blood pigment). It is in the tissues of the liver that the free yellow pigment is converted into a bound form. Such bound bilirubin enters the gall bladder, after which, together with bile, it moves into the digestive tract and is excreted together with feces. With this pathology, it is precisely unbound bilirubin that rises in the blood.
Gilbert's syndrome is most often diagnosed in residents of African countries, although it is also spread among representatives of other nationalities. By the way, men suffer from this disease about 10 times more often than women.
Gilbert's 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, the production of an insufficient amount of glucuronyl transferase in the liver hepatocytes. 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's syndrome: what are these and what are its symptoms?
The main symptom of this disease is jaundice. It is worth noting that the exacerbation of the disease can be triggered by various factors. In particular, a deterioration in a person’s condition is observed as a result of severe stress, physical exhaustion, malnutrition or starvation, the use of certain medications, as well as a previous inflammatory disease.
In connection with an increase in the concentration of free bilirubin in the blood , yellowness of the skin and sclera appears. As the disease progresses, other symptoms may occur. Some patients complain of headaches, impaired concentration, confusion, dizziness, memory impairment. Sometimes there is an obsessive feeling of anxiety or fear up to panic attacks, and sometimes depression and insomnia.
Naturally, digestive system disorders are also observed - this is loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, cramping in the gallbladder, liver pain, bloating and diarrhea. In some cases, intolerance to certain products, for example, carbohydrates, develops.
In the absence of timely assistance, symptoms of heart or respiratory failure, tremors, severe thirst, incessant vomiting, muscle pain, and enlarged lymph nodes appear. In the most severe cases, acute liver failure develops.
Gilbert's syndrome: treatment
Unfortunately, it is currently impossible to cure this genetic disease . On the other hand, most often the disease is benign - many people do not even suspect their illness for decades. Medical intervention is required only during periods of exacerbation. Therefore, at the first signs of jaundice, you must consult a doctor. Bed rest, drinking plenty of fluids, taking vitamins and a proper diet will help normalize metabolism. In some cases, the patient is prescribed phenobarbital, which reduces the level of bilirubin (you can’t use the medicine on your own, since if the dosage is wrong, complications up to liver failure are possible). The diet should not include foods containing preservatives and alcohol - the food should be fresh and, preferably, steamed.