Bilirubin, Total (Serum)
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 your liver process waste products.
["Bilirubin helps diagnose liver and bile duct problems, including jaundice and gallbladder issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 932-4
- Short code
- Deprecated Bld Prod Typ BBL
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Bld Prod Typ BBL
- 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 This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to check for liver disease, bile duct blockages, or conditions like hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down faster than usual. It can also help identify jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) or monitor treatment progress for conditions affecting the liver or bile flow.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—they can help make it more comfortable.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will clean your arm and insert a needle to collect blood into a tube. The process usually takes a few minutes. You may feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and painless.
Possible Side Effects
Common side effects include a small bruise, mild soreness, or slight swelling at the needle site. Rarely, you might feel lightheaded or dizzy if you stand up too quickly after the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated bilirubin levels can signal liver problems, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstructions. High levels may also indicate hemolytic anemia (where red blood cells are destroyed too quickly). Low levels are less common but could suggest liver disease or certain genetic conditions. Monitoring bilirubin helps track conditions like jaundice, gallstones, or metabolic disorders.
Short name
Total Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
What causes bilirubin levels to rise?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy