is a product of hemoglobin metabolism

Its serum level reflects a balance between

Input from production of bilirubin

Hepatic/biliary removal or pigment

Bilirubin is conjugated within the liver to glucoronic acid

Only conjugated bilirubin excretion in the bile, bilirubin is conjugated within the liver to
glucoronic acid

Jaundice can result from an excess of unconjugated bilirubin

From hemolysis, abnormalities of conjugation, or impaired hepatic uptake of bilirubin

Unconjugated bilirubin is also referred to as indirect bilirubin (comes from original

chemical reaction used for determining bilirubin levels)

Jaundice can also result from an excess of conjugated bilirubin (usually accompanied
by a smaller excess of unconjugated bilirubin)

can be excreted into bile

It then passes the intestines where it turns the stool dark

Intestinal flora also degrades bilirubin into urobilinogen, which is reabsorbed and