Which organ's failure can lead to increased levels of bilirubin in the blood?

The liver plays a crucial role in the metabolism and excretion of bilirubin, which is a byproduct of the breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells. Under normal circumstances, bilirubin is processed by the liver, where it is converted into a water-soluble form that can be excreted in bile. When the liver is impaired, due to conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver failure, its ability to process bilirubin is compromised. This leads to an accumulation of unconjugated bilirubin in the bloodstream, resulting in jaundice, which is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and eyes.

While other organs like the spleen, kidneys, and pancreas have important functions in the body, they are not primarily responsible for bilirubin metabolism. The spleen is involved in the recycling of red blood cells and the production of certain immune cells, but it does not process bilirubin. The kidneys play a role in waste excretion and fluid balance but do not metabolize bilirubin. The pancreas is involved in digestion and the regulation of blood glucose levels, but it does not directly relate to bilirubin levels in the blood.

Therefore, liver failure is the primary condition that leads to increased bilirubin levels, confirming that