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Total Bilirubin

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

["Your liver plays a key role in processing bilirubin, which can build up if your liver isn’t working properly."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61243-2
Short code
Goosefoot IgE/IgE total %
Synonyms
Goosefoot IgE/IgE total %
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 It’s Done

Doctors 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’s also used to monitor certain treatments or conditions like hemolytic anemia or jaundice.

What to Expect

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch when the needle is inserted, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort afterward. The test is quick and doesn’t require special preparation.

Possible Results

Higher than normal levels of bilirubin can indicate problems like liver disease, gallstones, or red blood cell disorders. Lower levels may suggest certain genetic conditions or liver damage.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or track conditions like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), liver diseases (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis), and bile duct obstructions. It’s also part of routine check-ups for people with known liver issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Bilirubin, Total

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated bilirubin levels?
Elevated bilirubin can result from conditions that slow down its removal from the body, such as liver disease, bile duct blockages, or increased red blood cell breakdown. It can also appear in newborns due to jaundice.
What if my bilirubin is low?
Low bilirubin levels are less common and may occur in people with certain genetic disorders, liver damage, or conditions affecting red blood cell production. Your doctor will discuss findings with you based on your overall health.
Does diet affect bilirubin levels?
Dietary changes alone won’t significantly alter bilirubin levels, but a healthy diet supports liver function. If you have liver issues, your doctor may recommend specific dietary adjustments to help manage symptoms.
  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