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Biliary bile pigment (bilirubin) analysis in stool

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the presence of bile pigments in your stool, which can help diagnose conditions affecting bile flow or liver function.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify whether bile is properly moving through your digestive system."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
95230-9
Short code
BILTANEU
Synonyms
Biliary Neo Chrom-Cyt Analysis Tiss
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Sterile container with saline or RPMI transport medium for tissue; cytology specimens in cytolyte or methanol-based fixative; sterile screw-cap tubes for cell suspensions
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–99 years
Method
Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for chromosome aneuploidy detection combined with cytological analysis; karyotyping may be performed to identify numerical chromosomal abnormalities in biliary tract tissue specimens
CPT
88275
SNOMED
433991000124102
Specimen volume
Tissue biopsy of at least 1 cm in greatest dimension; minimum 5 mL of biliary brushing/washing fluid; minimum 3 mL of cell suspension in transport medium
Stability
Tissue specimens stable in transport medium at 2-8°C for up to 24 hours; cytology specimens in fixative stable at 15-25°C for 7 days; cell suspensions at 2-8°C for up to 48 hours; do not freeze
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
72–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like persistent darkening of your stool, unexplained jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), or signs of liver or bile duct issues. It can also be part of evaluating conditions like biliary obstruction, liver disease, or certain gastrointestinal disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to collect a sample of your stool over a specific period (often 24 hours) or provide a single sample. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Is Performed

A stool sample is collected and sent to a lab. The lab analyzes the sample for bile pigments, which appear as dark or greenish substances. The test may use methods like chemical analysis or spectroscopy to detect these pigments.

Possible Results and Interpretation

Higher-than-normal levels of bile pigments in stool may indicate blocked bile ducts, liver disease, or other conditions affecting bile flow. Lower-than-normal levels could suggest conditions like liver cirrhosis or other metabolic issues. Your doctor will discuss results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Normal: No chromosomal aneuploidy detected by FISH and cytology shows no malignant cells. Results reported as positive or negative for aneuploidy with cytological interpretation (negative for malignancy, atypical, suspicious, or positive for malignancy)N/A

Specimen: serum

Informed consent required for tissue sampling procedure. Patient should fast for 6-8 hours if endoscopic procedure with anesthesia is planned. Discontinue anticoagulants per institutional protocol before invasive tissue collection. Provide complete clinical history including prior imaging and history of biliary disease

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Bile pigment stool test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive or abnormal result mean?
An abnormal result may signal a blockage in the bile ducts, liver disease, or other gastrointestinal disorders. However, results alone don’t diagnose a condition—your doctor will review them with your symptoms and other test results to determine the next steps.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once results are ready.
Can I eat or drink anything before the test?
No specific diet is required, but follow your doctor’s instructions regarding timing of meals or medications. Some samples may be collected after fasting; check with your provider if unsure.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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