Gilbert syndrome

Description

Gilbert’s syndrome: congenital, benign, chronic, intermittent hyperbilirubinemia. Fluctuating episodes of jaundice in the absence of any specific symptoms, with an excess of unconjugated bilirubin present in the urine.

Familial disorder, transmitted as an autosomal dominant trait. Both sexes affected (Male: female 4:1). Scleral jaundice is a constant factor. Symptoms of fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain usually exacerbated by exertion, alcohol, or infection.

History of Gilbert syndrome

1900 – Gilbert

1939 – Meulengracht

Associated Persons

• Augustin Nicolas Gilbert (1858–1927)
• Jens Einar Meulengracht (1887–1976)

Alternative names

• Meulengracht syndrome
• Gilbert-Meulengrach syndrome

References

• Gilbert A, Castaigne J, Lereboullet P. De l’ictère familial. Contribution à l’étude de la diathèse biliaire. Bulletins et mémoires de la Société médicale des hôpitaux de Paris. 1900; 17: 948-959
• Meulengracht E. Icterus intermittens juvenilis (chronischer intermittierender juveniler Subikterus). Berliner Klinische Wochenschrift. 1939; 18(4): 118-121