Jaundice isn't measured directly; instead, it's diagnosed by measuring bilirubin levels in the blood. Elevated bilirubin causes the yellowing of skin and eyes associated with jaundice. Therefore, the normal range for bilirubin levels indicates the absence of jaundice. Different labs may have slightly varying ranges, but generally:
Normal Bilirubin Levels
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Total Bilirubin: Most sources cite a normal range of 0.1 to 1.2 mg/dL (1.71 to 20.5 µmol/L). Some labs may report a slightly narrower or wider range, such as 0.3-1.0 mg/dL (5.1-17 μmol/L). Levels above 1.2 mg/dL are often considered elevated. For children between 15 days and 18 years of age, levels should ideally be less than 1.0 mg/dL. In newborns, levels may be higher in the early days of life due to physiological jaundice. In healthy newborns, bilirubin levels up to 17-18 mg/dl may be considered acceptable within the first few days.
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Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin: A normal range is generally considered to be less than 0.3 mg/dL (less than 5.1 µmol/L).
It's crucial to remember that these are general ranges. Individual variations exist, and a healthcare professional should interpret bilirubin levels within the context of a patient's overall health and medical history. Jaundice is often diagnosed when bilirubin levels exceed 2.5 mg/dL in adults.
The information provided here is sourced from various reputable medical sources, including but not limited to: Cleveland Clinic, Mount Sinai, Medscape, and the University of Rochester Medical Center. Note that ranges may slightly vary depending on the specific laboratory and methodology used. Always consult with a doctor for diagnosis and interpretation of bilirubin levels.
