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Bilirubin and Urobilinogen, Urine — Qualitative

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

A urine dipstick test that checks for bilirubin and urobilinogen, which can help evaluate liver function, bile flow, and red blood cell breakdown.

Quick summary

["Abnormal urine bilirubin or urobilinogen may indicate a liver, bile duct, or blood-cell breakdown problem."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50041-3
Short code
Bilirub+Urobilinogen Ur Ql
Synonyms
Bilirub+Urobilinogen Ur Ql
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 qualitative urine test detects the presence and relative amount of bilirubin and urobilinogen in a urine sample. Bilirubin is a pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, while urobilinogen forms when the liver processes bilirubin.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of an evaluation of jaundice, suspected liver disease, or a possible bile duct blockage. It can also provide information about increased red blood cell breakdown, although urine urobilinogen testing is not commonly used by itself for this purpose.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested with reagent-coated chemical pads, commonly as part of a urine dipstick. The colors produced by the pads are compared with standard color charts to determine the qualitative result for each component.

How do I prepare for the test?

Collect urine in a clean, dry container as directed by your healthcare professional. Tell the clinician about medicines, pregnancy, recent illness, or a urine infection, because these factors can affect urine color, bilirubin, or urobilinogen results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine bilirubin and urobilinogen

Frequently asked questions

What does positive urine bilirubin mean?
It means bilirubin was detected in the urine. This may occur with liver injury, gallbladder or bile duct disease, or certain medication effects, so follow-up testing may be needed.
Why is urobilinogen measured in urine?
Urobilinogen is a product formed as the liver processes bilirubin. Its urine level may help evaluate liver function, bile flow, and red blood cell breakdown when interpreted with other findings.
Can medication or vitamin C affect the result?
Yes. Some medicines can cause urine bilirubin, and vitamin C may interfere with reagent-pad color reactions, potentially affecting test results. Inform your clinician about supplements and medications.
  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