How should I investigate an isolated 'slightly raised' bilirubin (Bili.) in an asymptomatic adult?
We recommend:
Values up to 20% over ULN are likely to be statistical rather than clinical abnormals
Values < 1.5 times ULN: interval retest in 1-3 months unless clinical suspicion of disease
Values > 1.5 ULN: confirm proportion of indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin
If > 70%, unconjugated, probable Gilbert's syndrome: no further testing needed if non-progessive on interval retesting, unless clinical suspicion of haemolysis. If rising on restesting, consider haemolysis and test haptoglobin, LDH and blood count with reticulocyte count
Values > 3 x ULN: clinical disease probable, further investigation required. Consider ultrasound (conjugated > 50%) or haemolysis (unconjugated > 70%)
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'Minor' liver function test abnormalities: Discussion
© 2009 Dr Stuart Smellie, all rights reserved.