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Bilirubin, Urine — Qualitative

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

This test checks whether bilirubin is detectable in urine. It is often included as part of a urinalysis or urine dipstick panel.

Quick summary

["Detectable urine bilirubin can indicate a liver or bile-duct problem and should be interpreted alongside other liver tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58450-8
Short code
Bilirub Ur Ql Cfm
Synonyms
Bilirub Ur Ql Cfm
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
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 for the presence of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down red blood cells. Bilirubin normally leaves the blood through the liver and bile, so little or none should be detected in urine.

Why might I need this test?

Urine bilirubin may be included in a routine urinalysis or ordered to help evaluate jaundice, suspected liver disease, or bile-duct obstruction. It is usually interpreted together with blood liver tests and other findings.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and tested, often using a reagent strip that changes color in the presence of bilirubin. A laboratory may use additional testing if the result needs confirmation.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special diet or fasting is usually required. Follow the laboratory's collection instructions; when a clean-catch sample is requested, collect a midstream urine sample as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine bilirubin test measure?
It checks whether bilirubin is present in the urine. The result is generally reported as detected or not detected rather than as a specific concentration.
What can cause bilirubin to be detected in urine?
Possible causes include impaired liver function or obstruction of bile flow. Your healthcare professional will interpret the result alongside symptoms and other laboratory tests.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Fasting is generally not needed. If the test is part of a larger panel or a 24-hour urine collection, follow the specific preparation instructions provided by the 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