Rotor syndrome is a condition characterized by increased levels of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment that appears when red blood cells are destroyed.
A person suffering from rotor syndrome experiences symptoms of jaundice (jaundice), in the form of yellowing of the skin or the whites of the eyes (sclera). In addition to jaundice, a person suffering from rotor syndrome may also experience other symptoms, such as fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity (ascites), to chest pain.
Causes of Rotor Syndrome
Rotor syndrome is an inherited disease. This condition is the result of mutations or changes in the SLCO1B1 and SLCO1B3 genes. Both of these genes function to produce proteins that carry bilirubin to the liver. Bilirubin that has reached the liver will then be transported to the digestive tract and kidneys to be excreted from the body. However, when there is a mutation or change in the two genes, the transport function is disrupted and causes bilirubin to accumulate in the body.
Symptoms of Rotor Syndrome
A person suffering from rotor syndrome will experience jaundice or jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. But apart from jaundice, Rotor syndrome sufferers can also feel other symptoms that arise due to high levels of bilirubin in the body. Some of these symptoms include:
- Accumulation of fluid in the abdominal cavity (ascites)
- Stomach pain
- Weak and tired
- Nausea and vomiting
- Darker urine
- Fever
- Chest pain
Rotor Syndrome Diagnosis
The diagnosis of rotor syndrome is carried out by examining the symptoms, the patient's medical history, to a series of follow-up tests. Some of the tests used to diagnose rotor syndrome include:
- Test for bilirubin levels in the blood.
- Test for bilirubin levels in urine.
- HIDA scan. This test is used to see the condition of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts, using X-rays or ultrasound media. Previously, the patient will first be injected with a special radioactive substance to clarify the images of the scanned organs.
In addition to the three tests above, a diagnosis of rotor syndrome can also be made by genetic testing. This test serves to detect mutations or changes that occur in proteins, genes, or chromosomes.
Rotor Syndrome Treatment
Rotor syndrome is a mild condition and generally does not require special treatment. However, the treatment carried out can aim to relieve the symptoms that appear.
If the patient with rotor syndrome has symptoms such as fever, then the treatment can be done by taking drugs, such as paracetamol.
However, if ascites appears, then the treatment is done with the administration of diuretic drugs. Several types of diuretics can be used, including:
- Spironolactone
- Furosemide
The use of drugs must be adjusted to the patient's condition. Consult further with the doctor. The doctor will determine the type and dose of medication to be used. Inappropriate doses and types of drugs have the potential to worsen the condition and even cause side effects of drug use.
