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.
["Your liver plays a key role in processing bilirubin, and abnormal levels may signal liver or bile duct issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 48661-3
- Short code
- LPT 100 umol Be 5D Bld-Rto
- Synonyms
- LPT 100 umol Be 5D Bld-Rto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order a total bilirubin test to check for liver disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or blockages in the bile ducts. It can also help diagnose conditions like hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down more quickly than usual.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein in your arm to draw blood. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know so they can help make it more comfortable.
What the Results Mean
Bilirubin levels can vary based on factors like diet, liver health, and overall health. High levels may indicate problems with how your liver or bile ducts work, while very low levels might suggest certain blood disorders.
Common Conditions Linked to Bilirubin Levels
Elevated bilirubin is often linked to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), liver disease, or bile duct blockages. Low levels are less common but may be associated with certain genetic blood disorders.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Bilirubin plays a critical role in the body’s waste processing system. High levels can cause jaundice, fatigue, or itching, while low levels may not cause symptoms but can sometimes indicate underlying blood disorders that need further evaluation.
Short name
Total Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
What causes bilirubin to be high in my blood?
How long does it take to get my bilirubin test results?
Can diet affect bilirubin levels?
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