Bilirubin Total Assay Kit

Summary:
80-85% of bilirubin originates on degradation of hemoglobin with the other 15-20% being derived from cytochrome, myoglobin and catalases. Unconjugated bilirubin, which binds to plasma albumin, is producted in the course of degradation in the reticuloendothelial system, liver Kupffer cells, spleen and bone marrow.Unconjugated (primary, indirect, water-insoluble) bilirubin is soluble in lipids and toxic. With the aid of the glucuronyl transferase enzyme, bilirubin is conjugated primarily by glucuronic acid in the microsomes of hepatic parenchymal cells. In contrast to unconjugated bilirubin, conjugated (secondary, direct) bilirubin is soluble
in water, and is excreted via the kidneys. Bilirubin assays are suitable for evaluating the degree of severity of icteric clinical symptoms as well as for monitoring and objectively assessing these symptoms. Distinguishing between direct and indirect bilirubin is a valuable aid in the differential diagnosis of different forms of jaundice. A direct bilirubin value of <20% total bilirubin is an indicator of jaundice of pre-hepatic origin. This value can increase to >50% in hepatic and post-hepatic jaundice.