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Bilirubin, Fluid — Qualitative

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

Detects whether bilirubin is present in a fluid specimen and reports the result as positive or negative.

Quick summary

["A positive result means bilirubin was detected in the fluid, and its significance depends on the type of fluid and your clinical situation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43824-2
Short code
Bilirub Fld Ql
Synonyms
Bilirub Fld Ql
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 checks a fluid specimen for bilirubin, a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of hemoglobin. It provides a qualitative result, meaning bilirubin is reported as detected or not detected.

Why might I need this test?

Clinicians may order this test to evaluate a fluid collected from part of the body. The result can help assess conditions involving bile, liver or gallbladder disease, inflammation, or bleeding, depending on the type of fluid being tested.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory examines the submitted fluid using a validated test that detects bilirubin. The result is generally reported as positive or negative and may be compared with the fluid's appearance and other laboratory findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid specimen and the procedure used to collect it. Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional or laboratory, and tell them if you are pregnant or taking medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Fluid Bilirubin, Qualitative

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result always mean I have a liver or gallbladder problem?
No. Bilirubin can be detected for several reasons, and the meaning depends on which fluid was tested and your clinical circumstances.
Is this the same as a serum bilirubin blood test?
No. This test evaluates a fluid specimen rather than blood, so the result may be interpreted differently from a serum bilirubin result.
What if bilirubin is not detected?
A not-detected result may be normal for the fluid type, but it must still be interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination findings, 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