Bilirubin, Total
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 body remove waste.
["Bilirubin helps diagnose liver disease and bile duct problems."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 50178-3
- Short code
- LPT 100 umol Be 6D Bld-Rto
- Synonyms
- LPT 100 umol Be 6D 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
What Is Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a natural waste product created when your body breaks down old red blood cells. Normally, it’s filtered out of your blood by your liver and excreted through bile into your intestines. When bilirubin builds up in your blood, it can cause jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
Why Is This Test 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 too quickly). It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or gallstones.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed unless your doctor instructs otherwise. For blood tests, you may have a small needle inserted into your arm, and a small amount of blood will be drawn. If you’re nervous, let your healthcare provider know—many offices offer distractions or numbing cream.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will clean your arm and insert a needle to collect a small sample of blood. The process usually takes just a few minutes. You may feel a brief pinch, but most people find it quick and not very uncomfortable.
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.
Elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver problems, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, or blockages in the bile ducts. Low levels are less common but could suggest certain blood disorders or liver diseases. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
Total Bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect bilirubin levels?
Is there anything I should avoid before the 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