Gilbert syndrome

Gilbert syndrome (GS) is a genetic syndrome of mild unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia, by definition <102 micromol/L (<6 mg/dL) (rarely exceeding 68.4 micromol/L [4 mg/dL]). The liver function is otherwise normal.

Common syndrome affecting approximately 6% of the general population.

Decreased uridine-diphosphoglucuronate glucuronosyltransferase (UDPGT) activity leads to decreased conjugation of unconjugated bilirubin. In general, the bilirubin clearance is reduced by 60%.

Presentation usually asymptomatic, with mild icterus (jaundice) seen during times of fasting or physiological stress.

No treatment is needed since there is no liver injury or progression to end-stage liver disease.

Prognosis is excellent. Some patients with Gilbert syndrome may have abnormalities in the metabolism of certain drugs.

Gilbert syndrome is a mild, non-haemolytic, unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia, defined by bilirubin levels of <102 micromol/L (<6 mg/dL). It is an inherited disorder in which decreased levels of the enzyme uridine-diphosphoglucuronate glucuronosyltransferase (UDPGT) result in impaired conjugation of bilirubin.