Bilirubin Blood Test

Bilirubin Blood Test

The bilirubin blood test is a test used to measure the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a waste product produced when the liver breaks down old red blood cells. High levels of bilirubin can indicate liver or gallbladder disease or a decrease in red blood cells due to a condition such as anemia.

Preparation

• No specific preparation is needed.
• Your doctor may ask you to avoid eating food or drinking liquids other than water for 8 to 12 hours before your bilirubin test.

Procedure

A healthcare practitioner will take a sample of your blood, usually from a vein in your arm. The sample is taken with a needle and sent to a lab for analysis.

Types of Bilirubin Blood Tests

• Direct bilirubin test – Measures the amount of bilirubin that is directly attached to proteins in the blood.
• Indirect bilirubin test – Measures the amount of bilirubin that is not attached to proteins in the blood.
• Total bilirubin test – Measures the amount of both direct and indirect bilirubin.

Why the Test is Performed?

This test is performed to check the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow color substance that is produced as a by-product when the body breaks down red blood cells. High levels of bilirubin in the blood stream can indicate a liver or gallbladder disease.

When to Get Tested?

• To diagnose or monitor patients with jaundice.
• To check for liver or gallbladder disease, such as hepatitis or cancer.
• To monitor treatment for liver or gallbladder disease.

Risks

• Bleeding where the needle was inserted.
• Feeling faint or dizzy.
• Infection where the needle was inserted.
• Bruising where the needle was inserted.