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Bilirubin, Whole Blood — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of bilirubin in whole blood to help assess the liver’s handling of bilirubin and the breakdown of red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Abnormal bilirubin levels may reflect liver dysfunction, increased red blood cell breakdown, or impaired bile flow."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
42719-5
Short code
Bilirub Bld-mCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Bld-mCnc
Category
liver
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures bilirubin, a yellow pigment made during the normal breakdown of red blood cells, in a whole-blood sample.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to evaluate jaundice, investigate suspected liver or gallbladder disease, or assess increased red blood cell breakdown, also called hemolysis.

How is the test performed?

A small whole-blood sample is collected, usually by fingerstick or venipuncture, and the bilirubin level is measured using laboratory equipment.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required for this test unless you are also having other tests that require it. Follow any specific preparation instructions from your healthcare professional.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated bilirubin level may occur when the liver processes or releases bilirubin differently, when bile flow is obstructed, or when red blood cells break down faster than normal. The result should be interpreted with symptoms, other laboratory tests, and the laboratory’s reference interval because whole-blood measurements can differ from serum measurements.

Short name

Bilirubin, Whole Blood

Frequently asked questions

What does a high bilirubin level mean?
It may indicate liver inflammation or dysfunction, blocked bile flow, or increased red blood cell breakdown. Your healthcare professional will interpret the result alongside your symptoms and other tests.
Does this test require fasting?
Usually not. If the bilirubin test is part of a larger panel that requires fasting, follow the instructions provided for that panel.
Why is bilirubin sometimes checked in newborns?
Newborns are routinely screened because high bilirubin levels can affect the brain and nervous system if they persist. Monitoring helps determine whether treatment or follow-up is needed.
  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