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Bilirubin is high but other liver functions are normal. Should I worry?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I did blood tests, and attached are the reports.

Are they alright, or do I need to investigate further?

Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed your test results (attachment removed to protect patient identity), and the only abnormality is high direct bilirubin. Higher than normal levels of direct bilirubin in your blood may indicate your liver is not clearing bilirubin properly. The most common causes are cirrhosis, gallbladder disease, Gilbert's syndrome, bile duct cancer or stenosis due to other causes, hepatitis, liver cancer, sickle cell disease, and following chemotherapy. You will need further tests, including imaging tests, to evaluate your bile duct and the liver to come to a diagnosis.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Thank you for the answer.

I was told by the doctor here that because my other liver functions are normal, there is no need to worry. It could be Gilbert's syndrome.

Is that correct?

Please help.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Yes, that is possible since your indirect bilirubin is much higher than the direct bilirubin levels and your other liver function tests. Your complete blood count and reticulocyte count are absolutely normal, and you do not have any other disease process. The normal hematology results rule out the possibility of sickle cell disease or other hemolytic anemia, which can cause high indirect bilirubin levels.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answered byDr. Singh Smrita

Medically reviewed byDr. K. Shobana

Published At January 27, 2018
Reviewed AtOctober 22, 2025

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