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Total Bilirubin (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.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose liver and bile duct conditions by checking bilirubin levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
89214-1
Short code
OB D/C sum
Synonyms
OB D/C sum
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
obstetrics
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 doctor may order a total bilirubin test to check for liver disease, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct blockages. It can also help identify conditions like hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells break down faster than the liver can process bilirubin. Sometimes, it’s used to monitor treatment progress or detect complications in newborns with jaundice.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this blood test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood, which usually causes only minor discomfort. If you’re a newborn, your doctor may check bilirubin levels as part of routine newborn screening for jaundice.

What to Expect During the Test

The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm. The process takes about 5 minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch or sting. The site will be cleaned and bandaged afterward.

What the Results Mean

High bilirubin levels can indicate liver or bile duct problems, but results alone don’t diagnose a condition. Your doctor will compare your levels to your medical history and other test results to determine if further evaluation is needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Total Bilirubin

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated bilirubin?
Elevated bilirubin can result from liver disease, bile duct blockages, or conditions causing rapid red blood cell destruction (hemolysis). In newborns, high bilirubin is often due to jaundice, which is usually harmless but requires monitoring.
What causes low bilirubin?
Low bilirubin levels are less common and may occur with certain liver diseases (e.g., severe liver damage), chronic liver conditions, or in rare genetic disorders. Your doctor will assess the cause based on your symptoms and other test results.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine how often you need this test based on your health condition. For example, people with liver disease may need regular monitoring, while others may only need it occasionally or as needed for symptoms.
  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