Bile Canalicular Protein (Bilican) or Bile Salt-Conjugated Protein in Bile
This test measures certain proteins found in bile, which helps assess liver function and bile flow. Bile is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder before being released into the small intestine.
["This test helps diagnose conditions affecting bile production, flow, or liver function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44034-7
- Short code
- BCAB
- Synonyms
- Bile canalicular Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Serum separator tube (SST, tiger-top) or red-top tube with clot activator
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) / Indirect Immunofluorescence
- CPT
- 86255
- SNOMED
- 121780009
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of serum
- Stability
- Room temperature: 8 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 48–168 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), unexplained abdominal pain, or if they suspect a liver or bile duct issue. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like cholestasis (blocked bile flow), liver disease, or gallbladder problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may provide a sample of bile collected through a procedure (like a percutaneous transhepatic cholangiogram) or from bile drainage tubes. If blood is involved, you might need to fast or follow other instructions based on your doctor’s guidance.
How the Test Works
Bile is analyzed for specific proteins that reflect liver health and bile flow. Techniques like immunoassay or nephelometry may be used to detect and measure these proteins. The results help identify abnormalities in bile composition or function.
What the Results Mean
Elevated levels of certain bile proteins may indicate blocked bile ducts, liver disease, or other conditions affecting bile production. Lower levels could suggest reduced bile secretion or metabolic issues. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and overall health.
Reference range
Negative (antibody not detected). Positive result indicates presence of anti-bile canalicular antibodies, commonly associated with autoimmune hepatitis.N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should be well-hydrated prior to venipuncture.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal bile protein levels can signal underlying liver or biliary tract disorders, such as cholestasis (e.g., from gallstones, tumors, or inflammation), liver cirrhosis, or metabolic syndromes. Early detection can guide treatment decisions, including medication adjustments, bile duct evaluations, or interventions like bile duct drainage.
Short name
Bile Protein Analysis
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal bile protein levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet affect this 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy