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Bilirubin, Serum — Turbidimetry, Mass Concentration

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

A blood test that measures bilirubin, a yellow pigment made during the breakdown of red blood cells and processed by the liver.

Quick summary

["High bilirubin can signal increased blood-cell breakdown, liver injury, or impaired bile flow."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108015-9
Short code
Bilirub Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Bilirub Msmt Ur
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of bilirubin in serum, the liquid part of blood. Bilirubin is formed when the body breaks down old red blood cells and is removed from the bloodstream by the liver.

Why might I need this test?

A bilirubin test may be ordered to evaluate jaundice, unexplained yellowing of the skin or eyes, or possible liver and gallbladder problems. It is also used to help assess conditions that cause increased red blood cell breakdown.

How is the test performed?

A blood sample is collected, and the serum is separated from the cells. A laboratory instrument then measures bilirubin in the sample using a turbidimetric method.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required for bilirubin testing by itself. If it is ordered with other liver tests, follow any fasting instructions provided by your healthcare professional.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated bilirubin result may indicate increased red blood cell breakdown, liver inflammation or damage, or reduced bile flow. Results should be interpreted with other laboratory findings and your symptoms because mild elevations can have several causes.

Short name

Serum Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What does a high bilirubin level mean?
It may reflect liver disease, blockage of bile flow, or increased breakdown of red blood cells. Your healthcare professional will interpret the result alongside other tests and your medical history.
Is a bilirubin test the same as a liver function test?
Bilirubin is often included in a liver panel, but it is only one part of evaluating liver function. Other substances, such as enzymes and proteins, are also measured.
Does jaundice always mean the bilirubin level is high?
Jaundice commonly results from elevated bilirubin, but skin or eye yellowing can have other causes. A bilirubin test is one way healthcare professionals evaluate this finding.
  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