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Bilirubin, Total and Indirect, Serum/Plasma — Panel, Mass Concentration

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

Measures total and indirect bilirubin in blood to help evaluate liver function, jaundice, and the breakdown of red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Abnormal bilirubin levels can reflect liver problems or increased red blood cell breakdown."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34543-9
Short code
Bilirubin Direct+Tot Pnl SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Bilirubin Direct+Tot Pnl SerPl-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 blood test measures total bilirubin and indirect, or unconjugated, bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced as the body breaks down old red blood cells and is processed by the liver.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to investigate jaundice, unexplained changes in liver tests, or symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes. It may also be used to assess conditions that increase red blood cell breakdown.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The results are usually reported as the amount of bilirubin present in the blood.

How do I prepare for the test?

Fasting is usually not required, but follow your clinician's or laboratory's instructions. Tell the healthcare team if you have recently taken a medicine that could affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High total bilirubin may indicate that the liver is not processing bilirubin normally or that red blood cells are breaking down faster than usual. When indirect bilirubin is also elevated, this may support increased red blood cell breakdown or reduced liver processing of unconjugated bilirubin. Results should be interpreted with other liver tests, symptoms, and medical history.

Short name

Total and Indirect Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between total and indirect bilirubin?
Total bilirubin includes both conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin. Indirect bilirubin, also called unconjugated bilirubin, is the form released during red blood cell breakdown before the liver processes it.
What can cause an elevated bilirubin result?
Elevated bilirubin can result from liver disease, impaired bile flow, or increased breakdown of red blood cells. The pattern of the bilirubin results and other laboratory findings helps identify the likely cause.
Does an abnormal result always mean there is serious illness?
No. Bilirubin can be mildly or temporarily elevated for several reasons, including some medicines or dehydration. Your clinician will interpret the result in the context of your health and other 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