BILIRUBIN TOTAL, SERUM

Bilirubin Total, Serum

What it is

The Bilirubin Total, Serum test measures the total amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. This test is a key indicator of liver health and helps evaluate conditions affecting the liver, bile ducts, and red blood cells.

Uses

This test is used to assess liver function, diagnose jaundice, evaluate hemolytic anemia, detect bile duct blockages, and monitor patients with liver disease or on medications that may affect the liver.

Symptoms That May Lead to the Test

Doctors may recommend this test if you have yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or unexplained weakness.

Abnormal Results

High Total Bilirubin: May indicate liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis), bile duct obstruction, hemolytic anemia, or inherited conditions like Gilbert’s syndrome.

Low or Normal Bilirubin: Usually not concerning and often considered normal, though results should always be interpreted with other liver function tests.

Risks

This is a routine blood test with minimal risks. Possible side effects include mild pain, bruising, or bleeding at the puncture site, and rarely dizziness or infection.