Etymed
hyperbilirubinemia
Definition
A medical condition characterized by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, typically resulting in jaundice
Clinical context
A 2-day-old newborn presents with yellow discoloration of the skin and sclerae, with bilirubin levels of 15 mg/dL. The infant is otherwise feeding well and appears healthy. A 35-year-old patient presents with fatigue, dark urine, and jaundice following a recent upper respiratory infection. Laboratory studies reveal elevated indirect bilirubin levels with normal liver enzymes.
Mnemonic
Bilirubin elevated, jaundice follows - think 'BIL' for Bilirubin and 'J' for Jaundice