Bilirubin is not "stopped" but rather altered to allow for easier removal from the body. The primary way to achieve this, especially in cases of jaundice in newborns, is through light therapy (phototherapy).
Understanding the Process
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver processes it, making it water-soluble for excretion. However, sometimes the liver cannot keep up, causing bilirubin levels to rise. This leads to jaundice.
How Phototherapy Works
- Light Changes Bilirubin: Phototherapy uses special blue or white light to change the shape and structure of bilirubin molecules.
- Excretion Becomes Easier: This structural change makes bilirubin more water-soluble.
- Removal via Urine and Stool: As a result of these changes, the body can easily excrete the altered bilirubin in both the urine and stool.
When is Phototherapy Used?
Phototherapy is most often used for:
- Newborns with jaundice.
- Individuals experiencing elevated levels of bilirubin due to liver function issues.
- Conditions affecting red blood cell breakdown rates.
Additional Information
While phototherapy is the most common way to facilitate bilirubin removal, other methods may be used in different situations, such as:
- Blood transfusions (in severe cases).
- Treating the underlying cause of elevated bilirubin (e.g., medication for liver disease).
