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Bilirubin, Urine — Qualitative Test Strip

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

A urine dipstick test that checks for bilirubin in the urine. It may help evaluate liver function, bile duct obstruction, or conditions affecting bile metabolism.

Quick summary

["Detectable urine bilirubin may be associated with liver or bile duct disease, but results must be interpreted alongside other tests."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
5770-3
Short code
Bilirub Ur Ql Strip
Synonyms
Bilirub Ur Ql Strip
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
test-strip
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 uses a urine dipstick to detect bilirubin in the urine. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed when the body breaks down red blood cells and is normally processed by the liver.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test as part of a urinalysis or when evaluating jaundice, liver disease, gallbladder disease, or possible bile duct obstruction. It can also help assess the cause of dark-colored urine.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and a test strip is dipped into it or passed through the urine. The strip changes color in the presence of bilirubin, and the color is compared with a reference chart to produce a qualitative result such as negative or positive.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your healthcare professional. In many cases, a clean-catch, midstream urine sample is used, but specific preparation may vary based on the reason for testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive urine bilirubin result mean I have liver disease?
No. It can occur with several liver, blood, or bile duct conditions and is not specific to one diagnosis. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your medical history and other test results.
Can urine bilirubin explain dark-colored urine?
Bilirubin can contribute to dark or tea-colored urine, but other substances, including blood and certain medications, can also change urine color. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if your urine remains dark, especially with yellowing of the skin or eyes.
Is this the same as a blood bilirubin test?
No. This test checks for bilirubin in urine using a dipstick, while a bilirubin blood test measures bilirubin in the bloodstream. Both may be used together when evaluating liver or bile duct problems.
  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