Serum or Plasma Bile Acids (Total)
This test measures the total amount of bile acids present in your blood, which are important for digestion and metabolism.
["Bile acids help break down fats and play a role in liver function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 47427-0
- Short code
- ASPNB
- Synonyms
- A niger B Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST) or red-top tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Immunoassay (EIA/ELISA)
- CPT
- 86003
- SNOMED
- 395140008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL serum
- Stability
- Stable for 7 days at 2-8°C; stable for 30 days at -20°C
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Bile Acid Testing For?
Bile acids can be checked to evaluate liver function, bile flow, and conditions like bile duct blockages or liver disease. High levels may suggest liver issues or problems with bile production, while low levels could indicate malabsorption or other gastrointestinal concerns.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to separate serum or plasma for analysis. The test measures the concentration of bile acids using a specialized laboratory method.
What Might Affect Results?
Several factors could influence bile acid levels, including diet (e.g., high-fat meals), certain medications (like bile acid sequestrants), liver disease, gallbladder issues, or metabolic disorders. Recent meals or fasting status may also impact results.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as primary biliary cholangitis, biliary atresia, liver cirrhosis, or bile duct obstructions. It may also help assess patients with unexplained jaundice or gastrointestinal symptoms.
Reference range
NegativeN/A
No fasting required. Patient should be informed about the test purpose and procedure prior to blood draw.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Total Bile Acids
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What do my results mean?
How soon will I get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy