Serum or plasma concentration of bile acids (total)
This test measures the total amount of bile acids in your blood, which helps assess liver function and bile flow.
["Bile acids support digestion and may indicate liver or gallbladder issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 33401-1
- Short code
- N men sg B+E coli K1 Ag Ur Ql LA
- Synonyms
- N men sg B+E coli K1 Ag Ur Ql LA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- la
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Bile Acid Testing Used For?
Bile acids are produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. When released into the small intestine, they help break down fats. Elevated levels in the blood can signal problems like liver disease, bile duct blockages, or certain metabolic disorders. Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like jaundice, unexplained fatigue, or digestive issues.
Why Might Your Doctor Request This Test?
Common reasons include investigating unexplained jaundice, assessing liver function in chronic liver diseases, or diagnosing conditions like primary biliary cholangitis or cystic fibrosis. It may also be used in research or specialized clinical settings.
How Is This Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then processed to measure the total bile acid concentration in serum or plasma. Results are typically reported as a concentration value.
What Do Results Mean?
Higher-than-normal levels may indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or other metabolic conditions. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest bile acid malabsorption or certain genetic disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated bile acids can reflect impaired liver function, gallbladder disease, or bile duct issues. They may also be elevated in conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or pancreatic cancer. Low levels can be associated with conditions like Whipple’s disease or certain genetic disorders affecting bile acid metabolism. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider.
Short name
Total Bile Acids
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect bile acid test results?
Is this test painful or uncomfortable?
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