Question

What type of bilirubin (conjugated or unconjugated) is formed in the splenic macrophages?

1) Conjugated/direct bilirubin
2) Unconjugated/indirect bilirubin
3) Cannot be determined
4) Not applicable

Answer 1

The bilirubin formed in splenic macrophages is unconjugated/indirect bilirubin, which is then transported to the liver for conjugation and excretion.

Step-by-step explanation:

Splenic macrophages play a role in the breakdown of old or damaged red blood cells in the spleen. During this process, hemoglobin is broken down into bilirubin. The bilirubin formed in the splenic macrophages is unconjugated/indirect bilirubin. It is then transported to the liver, where it is conjugated with glucuronic acid to form conjugated/direct bilirubin before being excreted in the bile.