Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a yellow-orange pigment produced by the bile and a waste material that is carried in the blood. This term came from the Latin words “bilis” which means “bile” and “ruber” which means “red”. Before being excreted, this substance travels through the liver, gallbladder, and digestive tract. It is responsible for the yellow discoloration of the skin and sclera in jaundice.

For example, newborns’ bilirubin levels are checked to confirm jaundice. jaundice is also a primary symptom of hepatitis due to compromised liver function.