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Bilirubin Excretion Rate, 24-Hour Stool

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

A 24-hour stool collection measures the amount of bilirubin passed in the feces and can help assess bile pigment handling and intestinal loss.

Quick summary

["This test estimates how much bilirubin is excreted in stool over 24 hours."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
59166-9
Short code
Bilirub 24h Stl-sRate
Synonyms
Bilirub 24h Stl-sRate
Category
liver
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down heme, in stool collected for 24 hours. The laboratory may use the total stool volume and bilirubin concentration to calculate the bilirubin excretion rate.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to evaluate how the liver produces bile and how bilirubin is handled in the intestine. Results can also provide information when increased stool loss or unexplained changes in bowel function are being investigated.

How is the test performed?

You collect all stool produced during a specified 24-hour period in a labeled container provided by the laboratory. The stool is then analyzed for bilirubin, and the amount excreted per unit of time is calculated.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, including the start and end times and any storage requirements. Collect every stool sample during the 24-hour period, record when the collection began, and promptly refrigerate or transport the container as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Stool Bilirubin Excretion Rate

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine stool test?
No. It is a timed 24-hour collection specifically used to estimate the rate of bilirubin excretion, rather than a general examination of stool.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not required unless your clinician or laboratory gives specific instructions. Follow the instructions provided with the collection container.
What can affect the result?
Missed stool samples, inaccurate collection times, recent changes in bowel function, and certain liver or digestive conditions can affect the measured excretion rate.
  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