Bilirubin is a pigment of the blood that is related to conditions like jaundice. In this article, we’ll explain what bilirubin is and how it relates to birth injury law.

Key Takeaways

• Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment in the blood 
• Typically, bilirubin passes through the liver and is excreted
• Too much bilirubin in the bloodstream can cause health problems such as jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes
• Bilirubin tests measure the levels of bilirubin in the blood and are used to diagnose liver diseases, monitor liver disorders, test for drug toxicity, and more
• Untreated jaundice in newborn babies can develop into a condition called kernicterus
• Complications of kernicterus include brain damage, hearing loss, and cerebral palsy

What Is Bilirubin?

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment in the blood made during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Typically, bilirubin passes through the liver and is excreted out of the body. If the liver is damaged, however, bilirubin can leak into the blood and cause health problems. Too much bilirubin in the bloodstream can cause jaundice, making the skin and eyes appear yellow.

What Is a Bilirubin Test?

A bilirubin test is used to measure the levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin tests are usually done in conjunction with other tests for liver disease as part of a hepatic function panel.

Bilirubin tests can be used to:

• Determine jaundice in newborns
• Monitor an existing liver disorder
• Find blockages in structures carrying bile from the liver
• Diagnose hepatitis, cirrhosis, or other liver diseases
• Diagnose disorders related to red blood cell production problems
• Test a patient with a history of drinking large amounts of alcohol
• Test a patient with a suspected drug toxicity

​​Bilirubin and Birth Injury Law

Each year in the United States, 60% of babies are born with a slight yellowing of the skin. This occurs when bilirubin builds up in an infant’s blood. 

When a fetus is in utero, the pregnant parent’s liver works to remove bilirubin from its bloodstream. After birth, however, the baby’s liver must begin to perform this function on its own. In some newborns, the liver may not yet be fully developed enough to efficiently get rid of excess bilirubin. This causes jaundice of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

When severe jaundice goes undiagnosed and untreated for a long period of time, it can cause kernicterus, a type of brain damage. This can also lead to other serious complications such as hearing loss and cerebral palsy. 

It is the duty of care of medical professionals to diagnose and properly treat jaundice in newborn babies. A failure to do so leading to kernicterus may be considered medical malpractice.

If your baby had complications because of a healthcare professional’s failure to properly respond to jaundice, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills as well as your pain and suffering. It is recommended that you speak to an experienced birth injury attorney who will be able to help you determine how to proceed.