5,582
edits
Changes
no edit summary
==Description==
==Description==
Bilirubin is a pigment formed from the haem groups of haemoglobin molecules. The enzymatic conversion occurs within cells of the monocyte-phagocyte system (MPS) when haemoglobin is released by the degradation of red blood cells. This '''unconjugated''' bilirubin is not water soluble and it is transported in plasma bound to albumin. It is taken up into hepatocytes where it is conjugated with glucuronic acid. The resultant '''conjugated''' bilirubin is water soluble and it is secreted into bile which then moves into the small intestine.
Bilirubin is a pigment formed from the haem groups of haemoglobin molecules. The enzymatic conversion occurs within cells of the monocyte-phagocyte system (MPS) when haemoglobin is released by the degradation of red blood cells. This '''unconjugated''' bilirubin is not water soluble and it is transported in plasma bound to albumin. It is taken up into hepatocytes where it is conjugated with glucuronic acid. The resultant '''conjugated''' bilirubin is water soluble and it is secreted into bile which then moves into the small intestine.
[[Icterus]] refers to the staining of tissues by bilirubin pigment or bilirubin complexes, a phenomenon that is clinically evident on examination of the sclera and mucous membranes.
[[Icterus]] refers to the staining of tissues by bilirubin pigment or bilirubin complexes, a phenomenon that is clinically evident on examination of the sclera and mucous membranes.
[[Category:Blood Biochemistry Changes]]
[[Category:Blood Biochemistry Changes]]