Skip to content

Bilirubin Direct, Fluid — Substance Concentration

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

Measures direct bilirubin in a body-fluid sample to help assess bile pigment levels when the result is interpreted alongside the fluid type and clinical findings.

Quick summary

["This test measures direct bilirubin in a body-fluid sample; the result must be interpreted according to the type of fluid collected."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54362-9
Short code
Bilirub Dial fld-sCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Dial fld-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?

This test measures the amount of direct bilirubin in a body-fluid sample. Direct bilirubin is the form that has been processed by the liver and is excreted in bile.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to evaluate bile pigment levels in a fluid sample, such as cerebrospinal fluid or another body fluid, depending on the clinical situation.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the submitted fluid using an appropriate testing method and reports the direct bilirubin concentration. Results may be compared with the laboratory's reference values for the specific fluid type.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the body fluid being collected. Follow the clinician's or collection facility's instructions, and tell the healthcare team about medicines, pregnancy, liver disease, or recent procedures that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Direct bilirubin, body fluid

Frequently asked questions

Does this test measure total bilirubin?
No. It measures direct bilirubin, which is the fraction of bilirubin that has been processed by the liver. A total bilirubin test may be ordered separately.
Which body fluid is used for this test?
The slug indicates a generic fluid specimen, so the exact sample cannot be determined from the abbreviation alone. It may be cerebrospinal fluid or another body fluid, depending on the order.
What does an abnormal result mean?
The meaning varies with the fluid tested and your clinical condition. Direct bilirubin may be affected by liver or biliary disease, medication use, and other factors, so your healthcare provider should interpret it with your full results.
  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