Bilirubin, Total (Serum)
This test measures the total amount of bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down.
["Bilirubin helps your liver process waste and keeps your skin and eyes from turning yellow."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 41478-9
- Short code
- BARTON
- Synonyms
- B henselae IgG+IgM Pnl Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST, gold-top) or red-top plain tube without anticoagulant
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 1
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) or indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) for the qualitative/semi-quantitative detection of IgG and IgM antibodies to Bartonella henselae
- CPT
- 86611
- SNOMED
- 122450004
- Specimen volume
- 1–2 mL of serum (minimum 0.5 mL); 3–5 mL whole blood collected in serum separator tube
- Stability
- Serum stable at 2–8°C for up to 7 days; for longer storage, freeze at −20°C or below for up to 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles. Hemolyzed, lipemic, or contaminated specimens may be rejected.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 100
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to check for liver disease, bile duct blockages, or other conditions that affect how your liver processes bilirubin. It can also help diagnose hemolytic anemia (a condition where red blood cells break down too quickly) or certain genetic disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your doctor or phlebotomist know so they can help make it more comfortable.
What the Test Results Mean
Higher than normal levels of bilirubin can indicate liver problems, jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), or other health issues. Lower levels may suggest certain blood disorders or liver diseases. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health.
Common Conditions Linked to Bilirubin Levels
Elevated bilirubin is often seen in conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallstones, or severe red blood cell destruction. Low bilirubin levels can sometimes be linked to liver disease or certain medications.
Reference range
IgG: Negative <1:64; Equivocal 1:64–1:128; Positive ≥1:256. IgM: Negative <1:20; Equivocal 1:20–1:40; Positive ≥1:80. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay manufacturer.N/A
No special preparation required. Fasting is not necessary. Patients should inform the clinician of recent antibiotic therapy, immunocompromised status, or recent exposure to cats or fleas, as these factors may affect antibody response and interpretation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Bilirubin is a key marker for liver function and red blood cell health. High levels can signal jaundice, liver damage, or blockages in the bile ducts, while low levels may indicate underlying issues like liver disease or certain blood disorders. Your doctor will use these results to guide further testing or treatment.
Short name
Total Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
What causes bilirubin levels to rise in the blood?
How long does it take to get the results of this test?
Can I eat or drink before this blood test?
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy