Bilirubin (total, Direct, Indirect)

The bilirubin serum test is used to measure the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a waste product that results from the breakdown of red blood cells.

Total Bilirubin

• What it is: Total bilirubin is the sum of both direct and indirect bilirubin in the blood.

• Why it’s tested: This value helps assess liver function, red blood cell breakdown, and the bile ducts' ability to excrete waste. High levels of total bilirubin can indicate jaundice, liver disease, or a breakdown of red blood cells.

Direct Bilirubin (Conjugated Bilirubin)

• What it is: Direct bilirubin is the form of bilirubin that has been processed by the liver, conjugated (joined with another molecule), and is water-soluble.
• Why it’s tested: It is measured to assess the liver’s ability to process bilirubin. Elevated direct bilirubin can indicate liver diseases such as hepatitis or blockages in the bile ducts (such as gallstones or tumors).

Individuals who may benefit from the bilirubin test include:

• People with symptoms of liver disease, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue
• Those with gallbladder disease or suspected bile duct obstructions (e.g., gallstones or tumors)
• Newborns who may develop neonatal jaundice, a common condition in which bilirubin builds up in the blood
• Individuals with hemolytic anemia or other conditions that cause excessive breakdown of red blood cells
• People who are undergoing treatment for liver disease or monitoring liver function

Interpreting Results

• Jaundice: High bilirubin levels are often associated with jaundice, a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes. This condition can occur due to liver problems, blood disorders, or blockages in the bile ducts.
• Liver Health: These tests are crucial for diagnosing liver dysfunction or damage.
• Hemolysis: High indirect bilirubin levels can signal conditions such as hemolytic anemia, where red blood cells are destroyed more rapidly than normal.

• Total bilirubin blood test
• Direct bilirubin test
• Indirect bilirubin test
• Serum bilirubin level