Bilirubin

Bilirubin is a byproduct of the destruction of red blood cells in the spleen. Bilirubin is processed by the liver into a water soluble form that is then expelled through the bile duct into the intestines where it passes in waste.
Hyperbilirubinemia, or jaundice, is the result of a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. It is usually a sign of a serious illness in adults, but is normal in newborn infants. Newborns often re-absorb bilirubin through the intestine until their diet improves, raising the bilirubin levels in the body. However, on occasion, this can lead to kernicterus, a potentially life threatening condition.
Bilirubin breaks down under light and in cases of infantile jaundice infants are often put under bright lights to reduce their bilirubin levels.
Bilirubin at Wikipedia
Category:Blood Chemistry