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Bilirubin, Urine — Qualitative

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

A urine dipstick test that checks for the presence of bilirubin, a substance related to bile production and liver function.

Quick summary

["A positive urine bilirubin result may suggest bile-flow obstruction or certain liver conditions and should be interpreted with other liver tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
1977-8
Short code
Bilirub Ur Ql
Synonyms
Bilirub 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 checks whether bilirubin is present in your urine. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when the body breaks down red blood cells, and it is processed by the liver and removed through bile.

Why might I need this test?

Urine bilirubin may be ordered as part of a liver or bile-duct evaluation, particularly when jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, or itching are present. It can also help assess suspected obstruction of bile flow.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is tested with a reagent strip, also called a dipstick. The strip changes color if bilirubin is present, and the laboratory reports the result as positive or negative.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's or laboratory's collection instructions. Usually, you provide a clean-catch urine sample in a labeled sterile container; fasting is generally not required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A positive result may occur with conditions that prevent bile from flowing normally, such as a blocked bile duct, or with certain types of liver injury. It may also reflect contamination or other factors, so results should be interpreted alongside symptoms, examination findings, and blood tests such as liver enzymes and blood bilirubin. A negative result does not by itself rule out liver or bile-duct disease.

Short name

Urine bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive urine bilirubin test mean I have liver disease?
Not necessarily. It may suggest impaired bile flow or a liver condition, but urine bilirubin can also be affected by sample contamination and must be interpreted with the rest of your medical evaluation.
Why is urine bilirubin tested along with blood tests?
Blood tests measure bilirubin and liver enzymes, while urine testing can help identify whether bilirubin is being excreted into the urine. Together, they provide a clearer picture of liver function and bile flow.
Do I need to fast for this test?
Fasting is usually not required for a urine bilirubin test. Follow any specific preparation instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory.
  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