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Delta Bilirubin, Serum/Plasma — Substance Concentration

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

Measures delta bilirubin in blood, a form of bilirubin bound to albumin that may remain elevated during prolonged jaundice.

Quick summary

["This blood test measures a persistent form of bilirubin associated with prolonged jaundice or liver and bile-duct problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22665-4
Short code
Bilirub Delta SerPl-sCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Delta SerPl-sCnc
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

Delta bilirubin is a form of bilirubin that has become tightly bound to the transport protein albumin. This test measures its concentration in serum or plasma and may be used to help evaluate persistent jaundice.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test alongside other liver tests when jaundice continues, especially when the cause is unclear. It can provide information about how long bilirubin has been present in the blood.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum or plasma is analyzed in the laboratory using a validated method. Delta bilirubin is usually interpreted together with total bilirubin and other liver-function tests.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required, and fasting is generally unnecessary unless your clinician gives different instructions. Tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or have recently received a blood transfusion, as these factors may affect bilirubin results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated delta bilirubin level may occur with persistent jaundice, impaired bile excretion, or prolonged liver dysfunction. Because delta bilirubin remains in the bloodstream for a relatively long time, it may help show that hyperbilirubinemia is ongoing. Results should be interpreted with the rest of your liver panel, symptoms, and medical history.

Short name

Delta Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

How is delta bilirubin different from total bilirubin?
Total bilirubin measures all bilirubin in the blood, while delta bilirubin measures the fraction tightly bound to albumin. The two tests are often reviewed together.
Does an elevated result mean I have liver damage?
Not necessarily. Elevated delta bilirubin can reflect prolonged jaundice from liver, bile-duct, or other causes, so it must be interpreted alongside other tests and your clinical findings.
Can delta bilirubin stay high after jaundice improves?
Yes. Because it is tightly bound to albumin, delta bilirubin may remain elevated longer than other bilirubin fractions as jaundice resolves.
  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