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What Causes High Bilirubin Levels When Tumor Is Blocking Bile Duct?

Posted on Wed, 25 Mar 2015

Question: My dad has a tumor in his liver blocking his bile duct. His bilirubin is very high because of it. He has had two procedures done. Drains were put in to lower the bilirubin but right now there are no changes. His bilirubin is still high. It's been over a week since his first procedure and 3 days since his second procedure. My question is why wont his bilirubin go down. It is draining. Is this something that just takes time. His doctors are saying that they really don't know what to do if it doesn't go down. What will happen if it stays up? How long can he live this way. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Further information regarding type of tumor is required...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

I am sorry for the situation your dad is in.

1. You are reporting that he has a liver tumor blocking his bile duct. At this point, I need to have ultrasound or other tests reports to evaluate the type of tumor (malign? benign) and other issues.

2. It is normal to get a high bilirubin level when there is obstacle (tumor) blocking the bile duct. If he underwent to a second procedure to drain the bile 3 days ago, then, I need to know what changes the bilirubin level had during this time? If slightly reduced, then, it will continue to get reduced but need more time.

3. In order to say the final conclusions, I need to know:
- the type of tumor that has blocked the bile duct?
- other health problems he might be having?
- the changes before and after the procedure in bilirubin level

Looking forward to have the requested data in!
Dr.Albana

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini (1 hour later)

Thanks. He has esophageal cancer that has spread to his liver. He was dianagosed in April of 2013. Today his bilirubin did go down and we are hoping it continues. His doctor says that he can't start chemo until the bilirubin comes down. Also says he can't operate because the cancer is systemic. Thanks

Answered by Dr. Dr.Albana Sejdini (25 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Hope the best for all of you..

Detailed Answer:
Hi back,

I am sorry for the situation you are in.

On the other hand, I am happy that his bilirubin level has dropped today. Patience and time are needed at your dad's condition.

If metastasis are present, that makes his condition a bit complicated. However, prognosis will depend on aggressivity of cancer and his overall health condition.

All the best and God bless!
Dr.Albana

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar