Bile Acids, Serum (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of bile acids in your blood serum. Bile acids help with digestion and are produced by the liver.
["Bile acids play a key role in digestion and can reflect liver function or bile flow issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23669-5
- Short code
- BIOC
- Synonyms
- Biochanin A SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top serum collection tube (no anticoagulant) or serum separator tube (SST). Plasma may be collected in EDTA or heparin tubes.
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 10
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 18 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82542 (quantitative measurement by chromatography, not elsewhere specified)
- SNOMED
- 395142007 (measurement of substance)
- Specimen volume
- 2-5 mL of whole blood; minimum 1 mL of serum or plasma required for analysis
- Stability
- Serum/plasma should be separated from cells within 2 hours of collection. Stable at 2-8°C for 24 hours; for longer storage, freeze at -20°C or below. Stable for up to 6 months at -80°C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 100
- Lipemia max
- 200
- Icterus max
- 50
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Bile Acid Testing Used For?
Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, or unexplained fatigue, especially if they suspect liver or bile duct problems. It can also help diagnose conditions like primary biliary cholangitis or bile duct obstructions.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum for testing.
What Are Common Reasons for Testing?
This test is often used to evaluate liver function, assess bile flow, or monitor conditions affecting digestion. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for unexplained jaundice or gallbladder issues.
What Might Affect Results?
Factors like recent meals, certain medications (e.g., bile acid supplements), or liver disease can influence bile acid levels. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications or supplements you take.
Reference range
Reference ranges for Biochanin A in serum or plasma are not well established in clinical practice. Biochanin A is a dietary isoflavone primarily found in red clover, soy products, and legumes. Reported concentrations in individuals consuming typical Western diets are generally low (<10 ng/mL). Levels may be significantly higher in individuals consuming phytoestrogen-rich diets or taking red clover/soy supplements. Population-specific reference ranges should be established by the performing laboratory.N/A
No special preparation is typically required. Patients should be advised to disclose any dietary supplements containing red clover, soy isoflavones, or phytoestrogen products prior to testing, as these may significantly affect results. Fasting is not required, but a recent meal high in soy products may transiently elevate levels.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Bile acids are critical for fat digestion and absorption. Elevated levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct blockages, or other metabolic disorders, while low levels could suggest malabsorption or certain genetic conditions.
Short name
Serum Bile Acids
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor want to check bile acids in my blood?
How soon will I get my results?
Can I eat before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy