Overview
Gilbert’s syndrome (GS) describes the clinical manifestations of slower bilirubin processing leading to intermittent unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia. Its inheritance is debated, but it is usually autosomal recessive.
Epidemiology
- GS affects around 2% of the Caucasian population
- Men are more commonly affected than women
- GS is rarely diagnosed before puberty
Presentation
Patients often get intermittent episodes of non-pruritic jaundice that may be triggered by:
- Illness
- Stress
- Physical exertion
- Lack of sleep
- Menstruation
Investigations
- LFTs:
- Unconjugated bilirubin is raised
- All other markers are normal
- There is no bilirubin in the urine
Management
Overview
No treatment is required
Prognosis
- GS does not progress to chronic liver disease and has no impact on life expectancy
