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Total Bilirubin, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

A blood test that measures total bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of heme from red blood cells.

Quick summary

["Elevated bilirubin can reflect liver inflammation, impaired bile flow, or increased red blood cell breakdown."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
109706-2
Short code
Bilirub Msmt Prt
Synonyms
Bilirub Msmt Prt
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 total amount of bilirubin in serum or plasma. Bilirubin is formed when the body breaks down heme, the oxygen-carrying component of red blood cells, and is processed by the liver.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate jaundice, unexplained yellowing of the skin or eyes, or possible liver and gallbladder disease. It may also be used to help assess suspected hemolysis, which is the premature destruction of red blood cells.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is drawn and placed in a tube that allows the serum or plasma to be separated. The laboratory then measures bilirubin concentration using an approved laboratory method.

How do I prepare for the test?

This test usually requires no special preparation. Follow any instructions from your clinician, especially if it is being ordered with other liver tests or if you have recently eaten or fasted.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What does bilirubin measure?
It measures a pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes bilirubin so it can be removed from the body.
Why are conjugated and unconjugated bilirubin sometimes reported?
These forms help distinguish bilirubin that has been processed by the liver from bilirubin that has not. The pattern can provide clues about liver disease or increased red blood cell breakdown.
Does an abnormal bilirubin result mean I have liver disease?
Not necessarily. Other conditions, including blocked bile ducts and rapid red blood cell destruction, can also raise bilirubin, so your clinician will interpret it alongside other findings.
  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