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Serum or plasma concentration of bile acids (total)

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

This test measures the total amount of bile acids in your blood, which helps assess liver function and bile flow.

Quick summary

["Bile acids help your body digest fats and can signal liver health."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
30668-8
Short code
MR Abd WO contr
Synonyms
MR Abd WO contr
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr
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 if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, or if they suspect liver disease, gallbladder issues, or bile duct blockage. It can also be part of routine liver function testing or before certain treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid eating fatty foods for that time. If you’re taking medications, let your provider know.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort but no lasting effects.

What Are the Results Meaning?

Higher-than-normal bile acid levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or other conditions affecting bile production or flow. Lower levels might suggest liver dysfunction or certain metabolic disorders. Results are interpreted by your provider in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Total bile acids

Frequently asked questions

What causes bile acid levels to change?
Bile acid levels can rise due to liver disease, gallstones blocking bile flow, or certain medications. They may drop if your liver isn’t producing enough bile or if you have severe malnutrition.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your provider will explain them in detail during your follow-up visit.
Can diet affect bile acid test results?
Yes, eating fatty foods before testing may temporarily raise bile acid levels. Fasting for 8–12 hours before drawing blood helps ensure accurate results.
  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