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Total Bilirubin

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

Total bilirubin measures the amount of bilirubin in the blood, which is a byproduct of the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is used to assess liver function and diagnose conditions such as jaundice, anemia, and liver diseases.

Quick summary

Total bilirubin is a key indicator of liver health and red blood cell breakdown.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
mg/dL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
Roche Bilirubin, Abbott Bilirubin, Siemens Bilirubin
interpretation: {"text":"0.2–1.2 mg/dL: Indicates normal liver function and red blood cell breakdown.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":">1.2 mg/dL: May suggest liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic anemia.","label":"Elevated"}

Total bilirubin is the sum of direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin in the blood. It is a critical marker for evaluating liver function and detecting diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hemolytic anemia.

Elevated levels of total bilirubin can lead to jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. This can be due to liver damage, bile duct obstruction, or increased red blood cell breakdown.

Normal levels of total bilirubin range from 0.2 to 1.2 mg/dL. Levels above this range may indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct problems, or increased red blood cell destruction.

Frequently asked questions

What causes high total bilirubin levels?
High levels can be due to liver diseases like hepatitis or cirrhosis, bile duct blockage, or conditions that cause increased red blood cell breakdown, such as hemolytic anemia.
How is total bilirubin tested?
Total bilirubin is measured through a blood test, usually as part of a liver function panel or when jaundice is present.
  1. 1
    Mayo Clinic: Bilirubin TestSource
  2. 2
    American Liver Foundation: Liver Function TestsSource
  3. 3
    Liver Function TestsSource

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 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy