Bilirubin, Total
This test measures the total amount of bilirubin in your blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down, and it helps the liver process waste products.
["Bilirubin helps identify liver function and bile flow issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 100847-3
- Short code
- BldA
- Synonyms
- BldA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order a total bilirubin test to check for liver disease, bile duct blockages, or other conditions that affect how your body processes bilirubin. It can also help diagnose conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or hemolytic anemia. Sometimes, it’s used to monitor treatment progress or detect early signs of liver problems.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a liver function panel. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some may affect results. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing if advised by your doctor.
What Happens During the Test?
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein, typically in your arm. The process is quick and usually painless. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Higher than normal levels of bilirubin can indicate problems like liver disease, gallstones, or red blood cell breakdown. Lower levels may suggest liver dysfunction or other conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your medical history and other tests.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated bilirubin is often a red flag for liver or bile duct issues. High levels can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fatigue, or abdominal pain. Low bilirubin may signal liver disease, where the liver isn’t processing bilirubin properly. Regular monitoring is key for patients with chronic liver conditions.
Short name
Total Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
What causes high bilirubin levels?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet affect bilirubin test results?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy