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Bilirubin, Urine — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the concentration of bilirubin in urine to help evaluate liver, bile duct, and red blood cell breakdown issues.

Quick summary

["Abnormally high urine bilirubin may indicate impaired bile flow, liver disease, or increased red blood cell breakdown."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
70199-5
Short code
Bilirub Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
Bilirub Ur-sCnc
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 bilirubin, a yellow pigment made when the body breaks down hemoglobin from red blood cells. Bilirubin normally leaves the blood through the liver and bile; very small amounts generally are not detectable in urine.

Why might I need this test?

A urine bilirubin test may be used to help investigate jaundice, suspected liver or gallbladder disease, or bile duct obstruction. It may also be included as part of a urinalysis when there are concerns about increased red blood cell breakdown.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory to determine the concentration of bilirubin. The laboratory may use a reagent-based method, and results may be reported as a concentration or as positive or negative.

How do I prepare for the test?

Collect the urine sample using the container and instructions provided by the laboratory. A clean-catch sample may be requested, and avoiding contamination from toilet paper or cleaning products can help produce a reliable result. The sample should be delivered promptly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What does urine bilirubin measure?
It measures the amount of bilirubin in your urine. Bilirubin is a pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells and is normally processed by the liver.
What does an abnormal urine bilirubin result mean?
An elevated result may suggest liver disease, impaired bile flow, or increased red blood cell breakdown. The result is usually interpreted together with blood tests and other findings.
Is urine bilirubin the same as a liver blood test?
No. This test measures bilirubin in urine, while common liver tests measure substances such as bilirubin, enzymes, and proteins in blood. Both types of testing can help evaluate liver and 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