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Indirect Bilirubin, Fluid — Mass Concentration

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

Measures indirect bilirubin in a body fluid. This test can help evaluate bilirubin handling when the specimen is not blood or urine.

Quick summary

["An elevated indirect bilirubin level in a fluid may indicate increased bilirubin production or impaired liver processing."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29210-2
Short code
Bilirub Indirect Fld-mCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Indirect 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 indirect bilirubin in a body fluid. Indirect bilirubin is a form of bilirubin that has not yet been processed by the liver.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating jaundice, liver function, or bilirubin levels in a fluid sample. The results are interpreted alongside the fluid source, symptoms, and other laboratory tests.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory analyzes the submitted fluid using a validated method to measure the amount of indirect bilirubin. The result is reported as a mass concentration, meaning the amount of bilirubin per unit volume of fluid.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid being tested and the instructions from your healthcare professional. Follow the collection instructions carefully, and ask the laboratory whether fasting or other restrictions are needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Indirect Bilirubin, Fluid

Frequently asked questions

What is indirect bilirubin?
Indirect bilirubin is bilirubin that has not yet been processed by the liver. It is different from direct bilirubin, which has been processed and is ready for excretion into bile.
Why is this test performed on a fluid rather than blood?
The test may be used when bilirubin is being measured in a body fluid other than blood or urine. The clinical reason depends on the fluid collected and your healthcare professional's evaluation.
Does an abnormal result mean I have liver disease?
Not necessarily. Abnormal indirect bilirubin can reflect increased red blood cell breakdown, impaired liver processing, or other conditions, so results must be interpreted with the rest of your medical evaluation.
  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