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Bilirubin (Excess), Serum or Cerebrospinal Fluid — Substance Concentration

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

Measures bilirubin in serum and/or cerebrospinal fluid. Elevated serum levels may reflect increased red blood cell breakdown, liver dysfunction, or impaired bile flow.

Quick summary

["An elevated bilirubin result can indicate increased blood-cell breakdown or a problem with liver function or bile drainage."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72261-1
Short code
Bilirubin excess Ser+CSF-sCnc
Synonyms
Bilirubin excess Ser+CSF-sCnc
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 the amount of bilirubin, a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells, in serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

Why might I need this test?

A serum bilirubin test may be ordered to evaluate jaundice, unexplained yellowing of the skin or eyes, or possible liver and bile-duct problems. Bilirubin may also be measured in CSF in selected neurological evaluations.

How is the test performed?

For a serum test, a blood sample is drawn and analyzed in the laboratory. If cerebrospinal fluid is tested, a clinician obtains it through a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap.

How do I prepare for the test?

A blood draw usually requires no special preparation unless your clinician gives specific instructions. For a lumbar puncture, follow your clinician's guidance about positioning, anesthesia, activity after the procedure, and any possible side effects.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Bilirubin, Serum or CSF

Frequently asked questions

What does a high bilirubin level mean?
It may indicate that red blood cells are breaking down faster than normal or that the liver is not processing or draining bile properly. Other findings are needed to identify the cause.
Is this the same as a liver function test?
Bilirubin is one component often included in a liver function test panel, but it measures a product of red blood cell breakdown and bilirubin metabolism rather than the liver's function directly.
Why would bilirubin be tested in cerebrospinal fluid?
CSF bilirubin measurement is not routine for every neurological evaluation. It may be performed in selected cases when a clinician needs additional information about the composition of the cerebrospinal fluid.
  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