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Neonatal Bilirubin Panel, Serum/Plasma — Mass Concentration

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

Measures bilirubin in a newborn's blood to evaluate jaundice and help identify whether bilirubin levels may need monitoring or treatment.

Quick summary

["This newborn blood test helps assess jaundice and guide monitoring or treatment."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
50189-0
Short code
Neonatal bilirubin Pnl SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Neonatal bilirubin Pnl SerPl-mCnc
Category
liver
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

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of bilirubin in a newborn's serum or plasma. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. A bilirubin panel may also provide information about the forms of bilirubin when ordered.

Why might I need this test?

Newborns are often tested to evaluate yellowing of the skin or eyes, called jaundice. Results help clinicians determine whether bilirubin is rising and whether additional monitoring or treatment is needed.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is collected from a vein or by a heel stick, depending on the newborn's age and the testing method. The laboratory measures bilirubin and may report additional bilirubin fractions if requested.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Feeding and the time since the last feeding can affect bilirubin results, so tell the care team when the newborn last ate. Follow the newborn care team's instructions about monitoring and sample collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Higher bilirubin levels can occur with normal newborn jaundice, excessive red blood cell breakdown, prematurity, or impaired bilirubin processing. A rising or very high result may require closer monitoring, repeat testing, or treatment to reduce the risk of bilirubin affecting the brain.

Short name

Neonatal Bilirubin Panel

Frequently asked questions

Why is my newborn being tested for bilirubin?
Bilirubin testing is commonly used to evaluate newborn jaundice, which can appear during the first days after birth. The result helps determine whether monitoring or treatment is needed.
Does the test require fasting?
Usually not. However, feeding patterns and the time since the last feed can influence bilirubin levels, so the care team may ask about them.
What happens if the bilirubin level is high?
The clinician may recommend repeat testing, closer observation, hydration support, phototherapy, or another treatment. The appropriate next step depends on the newborn's age, health, and bilirubin pattern.
  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