Bilirubin, Whole Blood — Substance Concentration
Measures the amount of bilirubin in a whole-blood sample to help evaluate liver function and the breakdown of red blood cells.
["An elevated bilirubin level may reflect liver dysfunction or increased red blood cell breakdown, so results are interpreted alongside other tests."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54363-7
- Short code
- Bilirub Bld-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Bilirub Bld-sCnc
- 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 when the body breaks down old red blood cells. Bilirubin is processed by the liver and is normally removed from the blood.
Why might I need this test?
A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of liver disease, jaundice, or suspected hemolysis, which is the premature breakdown of red blood cells. It may also be used to monitor certain medical conditions or treatments.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the concentration of bilirubin. The laboratory may use different analytical methods, so results should be compared only with the reference information provided for that method.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special preparation is usually required for a routine bilirubin test. Follow any instructions from your healthcare professional, and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or may be breastfeeding, as this can affect some test results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A higher bilirubin level may occur when the liver cannot process bilirubin adequately or when red blood cells are being broken down faster than normal. Lower levels are generally less concerning, although very low levels can occur in some forms of anemia. Results should be interpreted with the rest of your liver and blood tests because laboratory methods and sample handling can affect bilirubin measurements.
Short name
Whole Blood Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
What does a high bilirubin level mean?
Is jaundice the only sign of elevated bilirubin?
Does a whole-blood bilirubin test require fasting?
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