{"id":16426,"date":"2023-08-09T12:04:00","date_gmt":"2023-08-09T12:04:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/agilusdiagnostics.com\/blogs\/a-complete-guide-to-bilirubin-blood-testing\/"},"modified":"2026-02-23T08:41:38","modified_gmt":"2026-02-23T08:41:38","slug":"a-complete-guide-to-bilirubin-blood-testing","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/agilusdiagnostics.com\/blogs\/a-complete-guide-to-bilirubin-blood-testing\/","title":{"rendered":"A Complete Guide to Bilirubin Blood Testing"},"content":{"rendered":"

Bilirubin blood testing is a critical diagnostic method for determining the amount of bilirubin in the blood, particularly in neonates. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment created when red blood cells degrade, this buildup can result in jaundice. Newborns frequently experience jaundice, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on their bilirubin levels and take prompt action if they rise.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

This in-depth guide will cover the significance of bilirubin blood tests, its role in the diagnosis of jaundice, and the management of <\/span>high bilirubin levels<\/strong> to support the health and well-being of newborns.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is Bilirubin and How Is it Connected with Jaundice?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

The normal breakdown of haemoglobin in aged red blood cells results in the production of bilirubin. Adults’ livers digest it and expel it from their bodies. However, because the liver is still developing in infants, there may be an excess of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to jaundice, which is characterised by a yellowing of the skin and eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Is Bilirubin Blood Test?<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The level of bilirubin in the blood is determined through <\/span>bilirubin blood test<\/strong><\/a>. It measures the two forms of unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct) bilirubin. Indirect bilirubin is not water-soluble and needs to be converted to direct bilirubin in the liver to become water-soluble and be excreted.<\/span><\/p>\n

Infants with Jaundice<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Jaundice is a common condition among neonates, about 60% of full-term\u00a0and 80% of premature infants suffer from this illness. It commonly manifests within the first several days following delivery and is usually not harmful. But occasionally, especially when bilirubin levels become too high, it can result in complications.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reasons to test newborns’ bilirubin levels<\/strong><\/h3>\n

For infants with the risk factors or traits listed below, bilirubin blood testing is advised:<\/span><\/p>\n