Causes of High Bilirubin Levels (AKA Hyperbilirubinemia)

4. Bile Duct Obstruction and Related Issues

Bile duct obstruction or biliary obstruction occurs when something blocks the bile ducts, preventing bile from flowing into the small intestine. One common reason for this may be gallstones, which affect between 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population or almost 25 million people. Gallstones themselves can block the bile duct and cause inflammation, making it even more difficult for bile to pass, leading to buildup. Other forms of gallbladder disease that can cause an increase in bilirubin include:

• Cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder
• Acalculous gallbladder disease is when someone has symptoms of gallstones with no stones present that may be caused by inflammation or a lack of blood flow.
• Sclerosing cholangitis, a liver disease that damages the bile ducts

Liver and bile duct cancer can also cause tumor growth and inflammation that can press on the bile ducts and prevent bilirubin from being processed properly.