ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceHard
A patient's blood test results indicate an elevated level of bilirubin, leading to jaundice. This suggests a problem with the processing or excretion of this waste product. Which organ is primarily responsible for conjugating bilirubin, making it water-soluble for excretion?
- APancreas
- BLiver
- CKidneys
- DSpleen
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Liver
The liver is the primary organ responsible for conjugating bilirubin. Unconjugated bilirubin, a byproduct of hemoglobin breakdown, is lipid-soluble. The liver converts it into water-soluble conjugated bilirubin, allowing it to be excreted in bile and subsequently in feces and urine. Dysfunction of the liver leads to elevated bilirubin and jaundice.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes and hormones, but is not involved in bilirubin metabolism.
- C. The kidneys filter waste products from the blood, but the liver conjugates bilirubin for initial excretion.
- D. The spleen is involved in breaking down old red blood cells, producing unconjugated bilirubin, but does not conjugate it.
Bilirubin Conjugation
The process, primarily occurring in the liver, where unconjugated (lipid-soluble) bilirubin is converted into conjugated (water-soluble) bilirubin for excretion.
- Essential for bilirubin excretion.
- Involves attachment of glucuronic acid.
- Dysfunction leads to jaundice.
Memory trick: The 'liver' is the 'life' of bilirubin 'conjugation'.