Health examinations
尿膽紅素 Urine Bilirubin
Urine Bilirubin: A Key Indicator of Liver and Biliary Health

*Urine bilirubin is a metabolic byproduct of bilirubin and is typically absent in healthy urine. Testing for urine bilirubin is crucial for evaluating liver function, biliary system health, and blood metabolism.

*Normal Range
Normal Value: Negative(-) (no bilirubin detected in urine).
Positive Result: Suggests abnormalities in the liver or biliary system, or bile duct obstruction.

*Causes of Elevated Urine Bilirubin
-Liver Diseases:
--Hepatitis: Viral hepatitis can damage liver cells, leading to bilirubin leakage into the urine.
--Cirrhosis: Reduced liver function affects bilirubin metabolism.
-Biliary Disorders:
--Gallstones or Tumors: Block bile ducts, preventing bilirubin from being excreted into the intestines.
--Cholangitis: Inflammation leading to bile duct obstruction.
-Other Causes:
Drug-Induced Liver Injury: Certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, painkillers) can impair liver function.

*Clinical Significance of Urine Bilirubin
-Elevated Levels:
Indicate liver or biliary diseases, often accompanied by symptoms like jaundice and dark-colored urine.
-Normal Levels:
In hemolytic disorders, urine bilirubin is typically normal as direct bilirubin levels remain unaffected.

*How to Maintain Normal Urine Bilirubin Levels?
-Protect Liver Health:
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption and limit the use of hepatotoxic medications.
-Prevent Biliary Diseases:
Adopt a healthy diet low in fat and cholesterol, and maintain a healthy weight to reduce the risk of gallstones.
-Regular Checkups:
Individuals with a history of liver or biliary diseases should routinely monitor urine bilirubin and liver function markers.
-Early Treatment:
Positive urine bilirubin tests should prompt further evaluation, including liver function tests and imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound) to determine the underlying cause.

*Conclusion
Urine bilirubin is an essential marker for assessing liver and biliary health. Abnormal levels often point to liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction. A healthy lifestyle, regular checkups, and early intervention can help prevent and manage related conditions. Persistent positive results for urine bilirubin require prompt medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment.