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Serum or plasma concentration of total bilirubin

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

This test measures the total amount of bilirubin in your blood, a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. It helps assess liver function and bile flow.

Quick summary

["Bilirubin helps diagnose liver issues, gallbladder problems, or red blood cell disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13179-7
Short code
English Walnut IgG Qn
Synonyms
English Walnut IgG Qn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 this test to check for conditions affecting the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells. It can also help diagnose jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) or rule out certain diseases like hepatitis or hemolytic anemia.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise. If you’re on a blood thinner, let your provider know.

What the Results Mean

Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver disease, blockages in bile ducts, or increased red blood cell breakdown. Lower levels may be normal, but persistent low levels could signal conditions like Gilbert’s syndrome.

Common Conditions Linked to Bilirubin Levels

High bilirubin is often linked to liver disorders (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis), bile duct obstructions, or hemolytic anemia. Low levels are less common but may relate to genetic factors or certain medications.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

This test is critical for diagnosing jaundice, liver disease, or blood disorders. It helps guide treatment for conditions like gallstones, hepatitis, or hemolytic anemia by monitoring bilirubin’s role in metabolism and waste removal.

Short name

Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What causes bilirubin levels to rise in the blood?
Bilirubin levels can rise due to liver problems (e.g., inflammation or damage), blockages in the bile ducts, or when red blood cells break down faster than the liver can process the pigment. Conditions like hepatitis, gallstones, or certain cancers may also contribute.
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Some labs may provide preliminary results sooner, but final interpretations require review by a healthcare provider.
Can diet affect bilirubin levels?
Dietary factors like high-fat foods or certain medications (e.g., antibiotics) may influence liver function indirectly, but they don’t directly alter bilirubin levels. Always follow your provider’s advice on test-related preparations.
  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