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Direct Bilirubin, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of conjugated (direct) bilirubin in a body-fluid specimen. The result may help evaluate bile leakage or liver and biliary tract problems.

Quick summary

["This test measures direct bilirubin in a body fluid to help assess possible bile or liver-related problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14152-3
Short code
Bilirub Direct Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Direct Fld-mCnc
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 direct bilirubin, also called conjugated bilirubin, in a body-fluid specimen. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down red blood cells.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to investigate abnormal fluid accumulation, suspected bile leakage, or a liver or bile-duct problem. Its usefulness depends on the type of fluid collected and the clinical situation.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the collected fluid to determine the concentration of direct bilirubin. The result is interpreted using the laboratory's reference information for the specific fluid type.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation varies with the fluid being tested and may involve fasting, time restrictions, or a special collection procedure. Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional or collection facility.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated direct bilirubin result in fluid may be associated with bile leakage, impaired bile drainage, or liver and biliary tract disease. The finding should be interpreted alongside the fluid type, other laboratory results, imaging, and your symptoms because reference ranges differ by specimen.

Short name

Direct bilirubin, fluid

Frequently asked questions

What is direct bilirubin?
Direct bilirubin is bilirubin that has been processed by the liver and is ready to be excreted in bile. It is also called conjugated bilirubin.
Why is the result compared with a fluid-specific reference range?
Expected bilirubin concentrations can differ greatly among blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid, and other body fluids. The laboratory therefore uses the appropriate range for the specimen tested.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal direct bilirubin result must be considered with other tests and clinical findings, and it may reflect several different liver, biliary, or collection-related conditions.
  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