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Bilirubin, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures the amount of bilirubin in a body-fluid sample to help evaluate jaundice-related or fluid-collection concerns.

Quick summary

["This test measures bilirubin in a fluid sample; interpretation depends on the fluid type and your clinical situation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
35193-2
Short code
Bilirub Fld-msCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Fld-msCnc
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?

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down heme, the oxygen-carrying part of red blood cells. This test measures the mass concentration of bilirubin in a body-fluid sample.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test to help evaluate jaundice, liver or bile-duct problems, or the cause of an abnormal fluid collection. The way the result is used depends on which body fluid is tested and your symptoms and medical history.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory measures bilirubin in the submitted fluid using a validated testing method. The fluid may be collected by a clinician through a needle or taken during another procedure, depending on the body site.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid sample and the collection procedure. Follow your clinician's instructions, and tell the laboratory about medicines, recent procedures, pregnancy, or other relevant conditions. Fasting is not usually required for this test by itself.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Bilirubin, Fluid

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine blood bilirubin test?
No. This test measures bilirubin in a body-fluid specimen, not in blood. Your test order should identify the specific fluid being tested.
Does an elevated result mean I have jaundice?
Not necessarily. An elevated result can have several causes, depending on the fluid type and your health history, and it must be interpreted alongside your symptoms and other test results.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not required for bilirubin measurement in fluid by itself. If other tests are being performed at the same time, follow the preparation instructions provided for those tests.
  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