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Bilirubin, Total (Serum)

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 diagnose liver and bile duct issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49674-5
Short code
LPT 10 umol Be 5D Bld-Rto
Synonyms
LPT 10 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 Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may order a total bilirubin test to check for liver disease, bile duct blockages, or other conditions affecting how your body processes bilirubin. It’s often done when symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), fatigue, or unexplained dark urine appear.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample drawn from a vein in your arm. If you’re on blood thinners, let your doctor know before the test.

How the Test Works

Blood is drawn and sent to a lab, where it’s analyzed to measure bilirubin levels. The test detects both direct and indirect bilirubin (though this test combines them).

Possible Results and Their Meaning

Higher-than-normal levels may signal liver problems, hemolysis (red blood cell destruction), or bile duct issues. Lower levels could indicate rare genetic disorders. Results are compared to your baseline or symptoms.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: whole-blood

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.

Clinical Significance: What This Test Reveals

Short name

Total bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated bilirubin?
Elevated bilirubin can stem from liver disease (like hepatitis), gallstones blocking bile flow, or conditions like hemolytic anemia where red blood cells break down too quickly. It’s also a marker for monitoring liver function or detecting underlying issues like cirrhosis or bile duct cancers.
What if my bilirubin is normal?
A normal bilirubin level doesn’t rule out all liver issues—other tests may be needed. If you’ve had symptoms like jaundice or fatigue, your doctor might repeat the test or order additional tests to investigate further.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health. If you have liver disease, your doctor may order this test regularly to monitor progression or response to treatment. Otherwise, it’s often done only when symptoms or risk factors (like diabetes or alcohol use) suggest it’s needed.
  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