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Serum or plasma concentration of total bilirubin (quantitative measurement)

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

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.

Quick summary

["Bilirubin helps identify liver function and bile flow issues, including conditions like jaundice or gallbladder problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111992-4
Short code
Dx Blry tr Endscpy
Synonyms
Dx Blry tr Endscpy
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
endoscopy
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 Matters

Your doctor may order this test to check for liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct blockages. It can also help diagnose conditions like hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down more quickly than usual. Sometimes, it’s used to monitor treatment progress for these conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw blood. If you’re fasting, follow your doctor’s instructions, as some labs require it for accurate results.

What to Expect During the Test

The blood draw is quick and usually painless. You might feel a slight pinch or sting, but most people tolerate it well. Afterward, you can resume normal activities immediately.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Results may be compared to your baseline or other tests to identify patterns. High bilirubin levels might suggest liver or bile issues, while low levels could indicate certain blood disorders. Your doctor will discuss findings with you and recommend next steps, such as further testing or lifestyle changes.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated bilirubin?
Elevated bilirubin can result from liver disease, gallbladder issues, or conditions that cause red blood cells to break down faster than usual, such as hemolytic anemia. It may also appear during certain medications or infections.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss the findings.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most bilirubin tests, fasting is not required unless specified by your doctor. If instructed to fast, avoid food and liquids (except water) for 8–12 hours before the test for accuracy.
  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