Urobilinogen
Urobilinogen
Urobilinogen (pronounced: yoo-roh-bil-i-noh-jen) is a colorless by-product of bilirubin reduction, produced in the intestines by bacteria. It is formed from the reduction of biliverdin, which itself is a reduction product of heme.
Etymology
The term "Urobilinogen" is derived from three words: "uro" meaning urine, "bilin" referring to a type of bile pigment, and "gen" meaning producing. Thus, Urobilinogen can be understood as a substance produced in the urine due to the breakdown of bile pigments.
Function
Urobilinogen is part of the normal urine composition and plays a crucial role in the coloration of the urine and feces. A small amount of it is reabsorbed into the bloodstream, metabolized in the liver, and excreted in the urine, giving it a yellow color. The rest is converted into stercobilin, which gives feces its brown color.
Clinical Significance
The level of urobilinogen in urine can be used as a diagnostic marker for various diseases. Elevated levels may indicate hemolytic anemia, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. Conversely, lower levels or absence of urobilinogen in urine may suggest a biliary obstruction or a defect in the liver's ability to take up bilirubin from the bloodstream.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Urobilinogen
- Wikipedia's article - Urobilinogen
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