Understanding Hyperbilirubinemia: Unraveling the Causes

Hyperbilirubinemia can be classified into direct and indirect types, each with distinct causes. Indirect hyperbilirubinemia arises from increased production via hemolysis, reduced hepatic uptake due to hepatic congestion or infections, and decreased conjugation related to advanced liver conditions like cirrhosis or genetic disorders. Direct hyperbilirubinemia is divided further into intrahepatic and extrahepatic causes. Extrahepatic causes involve obstructions in the bile ducts, potentially from stones, strictures, or external compression by tumors or lymph node enlargement. Intrahepatic causes stem from injury to liver parenchyma and include infiltrative, autoimmune, infectious, vascular factors, and toxic substances.