Bilirubin Analysis (Serum or Plasma)
This test measures the amount of bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when your body breaks down old red blood cells. It helps your liver process waste and remove it from your body.
["Bilirubin levels can indicate liver function or potential bile duct blockages."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95229-1
- Short code
- BTCYTO
- Synonyms
- Biliary Neo Chrom Analysis Tiss
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile tissue collection container with sterile saline or RPMI 1640 transport medium
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–99 years
- Method
- Chromosome analysis (Karyotyping), Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), Chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA)
- CPT
- 88264
- SNOMED
- 38441000114603
- Specimen volume
- Fresh tissue specimen (minimum 1 cm³) collected under sterile conditions; biopsy core or resected tissue fragment
- Stability
- Refrigerate at 2-8°C; deliver to laboratory within 24 hours of collection. For longer transport, use RPMI transport medium at 4°C. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 168–720 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Matters
Your doctor may order this test to check for liver problems, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or blockages in your bile ducts. It can also help diagnose conditions like gallstones or certain types of cancer. High levels might suggest jaundice, while low levels could indicate hemolytic anemia or liver disease.
What to Expect Before the Test
You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw. No special preparation is needed for a urine test. If you have any concerns or conditions (like diabetes), let your doctor know before the test.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from your arm, or urine may be collected in a container. The sample is then analyzed to measure bilirubin levels using a specialized lab test. Results are compared to standard ranges to identify any abnormalities.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If your bilirubin levels are outside the normal range, your doctor may recommend further testing, such as additional blood tests, imaging (like an ultrasound), or a liver biopsy. Follow-up may include monitoring symptoms or adjusting medications if needed.
Reference range
No clinically significant chromosomal abnormalities detected. Normal female karyotype (46,XX) or normal male karyotype (46,XY). Results interpreted in conjunction with histopathological findings.N/A
No fasting required. Patient should inform clinician of any recent blood transfusions, as this may affect chromosomal analysis results. Tissue sample collection is performed via surgical biopsy or resection by qualified medical personnel.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Bilirubin Test
Frequently asked questions
What causes elevated bilirubin?
What if my bilirubin is low?
Can I eat before 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