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Bilirubin, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of bilirubin in a collected body fluid. Interpretation depends on the fluid source and the clinical situation.

Quick summary

["This test measures bilirubin in a body fluid to help evaluate yellow discoloration or the cause of a fluid collection."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1974-5
Short code
Bilirub Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub 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 the concentration of bilirubin in a body fluid. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when the body breaks down heme, the oxygen-carrying part of red blood cells.

Why might I need this test?

A bilirubin measurement may help explain yellow discoloration of a fluid or evaluate the cause of an abnormal fluid collection. The reason for testing and how the result is interpreted depend on the type of fluid and your symptoms.

How is the test performed?

A clinician collects a sample of the appropriate body fluid and sends it to a laboratory. The laboratory measures the bilirubin concentration using a validated testing method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the fluid being tested and the collection procedure. Follow your clinician's instructions, and tell the laboratory if you are pregnant or taking medicines that may affect liver function or bilirubin levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated bilirubin concentration may occur with increased red blood cell breakdown, impaired bile flow, or liver inflammation. Results must be interpreted alongside the fluid source, symptoms, other laboratory tests, and any relevant imaging because each type of body fluid has a different clinical context.

Short name

Fluid bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is usually not required for measuring bilirubin itself, but preparation may depend on the procedure used to collect the fluid. Follow the specific instructions provided by your clinician.
Which body fluids can be tested?
Bilirubin may be measured in certain collected body fluids, depending on the clinical situation. The laboratory order or test report should identify the exact specimen.
Does an abnormal result diagnose a specific condition?
No. An abnormal bilirubin result contributes to the overall evaluation but does not identify a condition by itself. Your clinician will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test 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