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Bilirubin, Body Fluid

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

Measures bilirubin in a body-fluid sample to help evaluate bile pigment levels and possible liver or biliary tract problems.

Quick summary

["This test checks the amount of bilirubin in a body-fluid sample, and results must be interpreted in the context of the fluid tested and your health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109883-9
Short code
Bilirub Msmt Fld
Synonyms
Bilirub Msmt Fld
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?

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down hemoglobin. This test measures bilirubin in a body-fluid sample, such as fluid collected from a cavity or another clinically indicated site.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when evaluating liver function, bile duct obstruction, or a fluid accumulation. It may also be used to help distinguish between causes of abnormal fluid buildup.

How is the test performed?

A body-fluid sample is collected by a healthcare professional and analyzed in a laboratory using a validated bilirubin method. The method may vary by laboratory and the type of fluid collected.

How do I prepare for the test?

Preparation depends on the type of fluid being collected. Follow your clinician's collection instructions carefully, and tell the healthcare team about any medicines, supplements, or recent procedures that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Bilirubin (body fluid)

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a serum bilirubin test?
No. This test measures bilirubin in body fluid, while a serum bilirubin test measures it in blood serum. Reference considerations can differ between specimen types.
Why is bilirubin measured in body fluid?
The measurement can help clinicians evaluate liver or bile duct problems and, in some cases, determine whether a fluid buildup is related to elevated bile pigment.
Does a high result confirm a specific condition?
No. An elevated result is not diagnostic by itself and must be interpreted with symptoms, other laboratory tests, imaging, and the type of fluid tested.
  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