Gilbert's syndrome

Question 1

What type of inheritance does Gilbert’s syndrome have?

Answer 1

Autosomal recessive

Question 2

What is Gilbert’s syndrome?

Answer 2

A condition of defective bilirubin conjugation due to a deficiency of UDP glucuronosyltransferase

Question 3

What does Gilbert’s syndrome result in?

Answer 3

Decreased activity of the enzyme that conjugates bilirubin with glucuronic acid

Question 4

How can Gilbert’s syndrome present?

Answer 4

Intermittent mild jaundice in relation to stress, fasting, infection or exercise.

Question 5

What can trigger the intermittent jaundice experienced by people with Gilbert’s syndrome?

Answer 5

Stress
Fasting
Infection
Exercise.

Question 6

What might blood tests of someone with Gilbert’s syndrome show?

Answer 6

Mildly increased bilirubin but a normal FBC.

Question 7

What can cause the rise in bilirubin in someone with Gilbert’s syndrome?

Answer 7

Prolonged fasting or IV nicotinic acid

Question 8

Does Gilbert’s syndrome require treatment?

Answer 8

No- it is a benign condition