Gilbert syndrome

Gilbert's syndrome is an inherited (genetic) liver disorder that affects the body's ability to process bilirubin. Bilirubin is yellow liquid waste that occurs naturally as the body breaks down old red blood cells. People with Gilbert's syndrome don't produce enough liver enzymes to keep bilirubin at a normal level.

1. What causes Gilbert's syndrome?
2. How is Gilbert's syndrome inherited?
3. What foods should you avoid with Gilbert's syndrome?
4. Which enzyme is deficient in Gilbert syndrome?

What causes Gilbert's syndrome?

An abnormal gene you inherit from your parents causes Gilbert's syndrome. The gene normally controls an enzyme that helps break down bilirubin in your liver. When you have an ineffective gene, your blood contains excess amounts of bilirubin because your body doesn't produce enough of the enzyme.

How is Gilbert's syndrome inherited?

Gilbert syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, which means both copies of the gene in each cell have mutations . The parents of a person with an autosomal recessive condition each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show signs and symptoms of the condition.

What foods should you avoid with Gilbert's syndrome?

Patients are advised to eat a well balanced and healthy diet, drink plenty of clear fluids like water and fruit juice, avoid fatty or sugary foods or foods that they cannot tolerate. Some patients may also require vitamins and supplements. Alcohol should be avoided.

Which enzyme is deficient in Gilbert syndrome?

Gilbert's syndrome is due to a mutation in the UGT1A1 gene which results in decreased activity of the bilirubin uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase enzyme. It is typically inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern and occasionally in an autosomal dominant pattern depending on the type of mutation.