1. What is Bilirubin?

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It's processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Elevated levels may indicate liver dysfunction or hemolytic disorders.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

Where:

• mg/dL — Milligrams per deciliter (input value)
• mmol/L — Millimoles per liter (output value)
• 58.48 — Molecular weight of bilirubin (g/mol)
• 10 — Conversion factor between deciliters and liters

Explanation: This formula converts bilirubin concentration from mg/dL (common in US) to mmol/L (international standard).

3. Importance of Bilirubin Measurement

Details: Bilirubin levels help diagnose and monitor liver diseases, bile duct obstruction, and hemolytic anemias. Both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) fractions provide clinical information.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter bilirubin value in mg/dL. The calculator will automatically convert to mmol/L. Values must be non-negative.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert between mg/dL and mmol/L?
A: Different countries use different units. mg/dL is common in the US, while mmol/L is the international standard used in most other countries.

Q2: What are normal bilirubin levels?
A: Total bilirubin typically ranges from 0.1-1.2 mg/dL (1.7-20.5 μmol/L). Levels above 2.0 mg/dL may cause jaundice.

Q3: What's the difference between direct and indirect bilirubin?
A: Indirect bilirubin is unconjugated and water-insoluble. Direct bilirubin is conjugated and water-soluble. The pattern helps diagnose the cause of hyperbilirubinemia.

Q4: When is bilirubin testing ordered?
A: When jaundice is present, or to monitor liver disease, hemolytic anemia, or bile duct obstruction.

Q5: Are there limitations to bilirubin measurement?
A: Various factors can affect accuracy, including hemolysis, lipemia, and certain medications. Always interpret results in clinical context.