Is high level of bilirubin an indication of cancer?
Patient: Hi I am a 43 year old women, I had a blood test done last week because I was feeling nauseous. My bilirubin level was very high at 25, my doctor told me that was very high and I have to go for a scan later today. I am worried sick, I can't eat or sleep. Is it a sign of liver cancer? Doctor: Hi,I am so sorry to hear about your distress. A bilirubin level of 25 is definitely on the higher side and would have clinically presented with jaundice. I presume the bilirubin level you are stating is the "Direct" or the "Conjugated" type of bilirubin? There are various causes for such a high level of bilirubin and it might be good to know that cancer is not the commonest cause.  A stone in the bile duct or a stricture in the duct is usually the main culprit. But unfortunately cancer of the bile ducts or the pancreas or "Ampulla" (where the bile ducts open into the intestine) also presents with jaundice. So the only way to diagnose the cause is to get a scan. Irrespective of what shows up on the scan, it might be heartening to know that there are excellent therapeutic options available for treating your condition.So I would suggest you to relax and wait for the results of your scan.Please do not hesitate to contact me fir further clarifications - rxsuresh@gmail.com