Bilirubinemia: meaning, definitions and examples
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bilirubinemia
[ ˌbɪlɪˈrubɪnɪmiə ]
medical condition
Bilirubinemia refers to an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to jaundice. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that arises from the normal breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can indicate various conditions, including liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolysis.
Synonyms
hyperbilirubinemia
Examples of usage
- The patient was diagnosed with bilirubinemia after showing symptoms of jaundice.
- Bilirubinemia can sometimes resolve on its own without the need for treatment.
- Doctors monitor bilirubinemia levels to assess liver function.
- In newborns, bilirubinemia is a common condition needing observation.
Word origin
The term 'bilirubinemia' originates from two components: 'bili-' referring to bile and 'rubin', which is derived from the Latin word 'ruber', meaning 'red'. The '-emia' suffix indicates a condition of the blood. The study of bilirubin started in the 19th century, linked to the understanding of liver function and blood composition. Elevated bilirubin levels have long been associated with liver diseases, making it an important marker in medical diagnostics. The focus on jaundice in medical literature has also popularized the term, especially in pediatrics, as bilirubinemia is a common condition in newborns. Understanding bilirubin metabolism has evolved significantly, emphasizing the importance of liver health in preventing bilirubinemia.