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Question

Consider the following with regard to Gilbert Syndrome:

I. Autosomal recessive trait of a mutation in gene for UDP- glucuronyl transferase enzyme

II. Elevation of unconjugated bilirubin

III. No stigmata of chronic liver disease other than jaundice

IV. Early Liver biopsy recommended in patients with possible Gilbert Syndrome

Which of the above are correct?

The correct answer is
I, II and III

This question asks us to identify the correct statements regarding Gilbert Syndrome from the given options.

Gilbert Syndrome Genetic Basis

Statement I claims that Gilbert Syndrome is an autosomal recessive trait involving a mutation in the gene for the UDP-glucuronyl transferase enzyme. This is accurate. Gilbert Syndrome is an inherited condition, passed down in an autosomal recessive pattern. The primary cause is a genetic mutation, typically in the UGT1A1 gene. This gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called UDP-glucuronyl transferase, which plays a crucial role in processing bilirubin in the liver. Therefore, Statement I is correct.

Gilbert Syndrome Bilirubin Levels

Statement II states that there is an elevation of unconjugated bilirubin. Due to the reduced activity of the UDP-glucuronyl transferase enzyme caused by the genetic mutation, the liver cannot effectively conjugate bilirubin (convert it from unconjugated to conjugated form). This leads to a buildup of unconjugated bilirubin in the bloodstream, resulting in mild hyperbilirubinemia. Hence, Statement II is correct.

Gilbert Syndrome Clinical Presentation

Statement III suggests that there are no stigmata of chronic liver disease other than jaundice. Gilbert Syndrome is considered a benign, lifelong condition. Patients typically experience mild, intermittent jaundice, often exacerbated by stress, illness, fasting, or dehydration. Crucially, they do not exhibit signs or symptoms associated with chronic liver damage, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, ascites, or abnormal liver function tests (like elevated ALT or AST levels). Therefore, Statement III is correct.

Gilbert Syndrome Diagnostic Procedures

Statement IV recommends an early liver biopsy in patients with possible Gilbert Syndrome. This is incorrect. Liver biopsy is an invasive procedure and is generally not indicated for diagnosing Gilbert Syndrome. The diagnosis is usually made based on a characteristic clinical presentation (mild jaundice, normal liver function tests) and laboratory findings confirming elevated unconjugated bilirubin. A liver biopsy is reserved for cases where other liver diseases are suspected or when the diagnosis remains unclear.

Conclusion on Gilbert Syndrome Statements

Based on the analysis of each statement:

  • Statement I is correct (Autosomal recessive trait, UGT1A1 gene mutation).
  • Statement II is correct (Elevation of unconjugated bilirubin).
  • Statement III is correct (No stigmata of chronic liver disease besides jaundice).
  • Statement IV is incorrect (Liver biopsy is not recommended).

Therefore, the correct statements are I, II, and III.

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Important Questions from Miscellaneous

  1. A 35 year old male presents with increased urine output. On evaluation, his urinary output was around 4L/day; urinary osmolality was 200 mosmol/L. Which of the following are various differential diagnosis ?

    I. Psychogenic polydipsia

    II. Solute diuresis

    III. Central diabetes insipidus

    IV. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

    Select the correct answer using the
    code given below:

  2. Which one of the following causes low-volume erythrocytosis?

  3. Under which one of the following conditions, the HPA axis suppression is likely to result in crisis due to adrenal insufficiency following withdrawal of glucocorticoids?

  4. A 36 year old man presents with decreased apetite, mouth soreness, diarrhoea and irritability. On examination he has a bright red tongue with a pigmented scaly rash around the neck. Which one of the following food items in his diet has a bearing on his disease?

  5. Koebner phenomenon is seen in which one of the following conditions?

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