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Bilirubin, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of bilirubin in cerebrospinal fluid to help evaluate conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or liver.

Quick summary

["This test measures bilirubin in spinal fluid and is interpreted alongside other clinical and laboratory findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
74906-9
Short code
Bilirub CSF-sCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub CSF-sCnc
Category
liver
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the concentration of bilirubin in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down heme from red blood cells.

Why might I need this test?

A cerebrospinal fluid bilirubin measurement may be included when evaluating jaundice, liver dysfunction, blood breakdown, or certain neurologic conditions. It is generally interpreted with other liver tests, blood tests, and cerebrospinal fluid findings.

How is the test performed?

Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected through a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. The laboratory measures bilirubin in the collected fluid, and the results are reviewed together with the rest of the cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

No specific preparation is usually required for the bilirubin measurement itself. A lumbar puncture requires informed consent, and your clinician will explain the procedure, possible risks, and any preparation needed for other tests being performed at the same time.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

Is a cerebrospinal fluid bilirubin test the same as a blood bilirubin test?
No. This test measures bilirubin in spinal fluid, while a serum or plasma bilirubin test measures it in the blood. The values are interpreted differently.
How is cerebrospinal fluid collected?
A clinician usually performs a lumbar puncture using a needle inserted into the lower back to collect fluid around the spinal cord. The procedure is performed under sterile conditions with local anesthetic.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific disease?
No. An abnormal result can have several possible causes and must be considered with the rest of the cerebrospinal fluid panel, liver tests, blood tests, and your clinical history.
  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