Bilirubin (Total, Direct & Indirect) Test

Meaning of Bilirubin

Bilirubin exists in two general forms:

• Unconjugated (Indirect) Bilirubin: This type is formed during hemoglobin breakdown and is carried to the liver by albumin binding.
• Conjugated (Direct) Bilirubin: Unconjugated bilirubin in the liver is conjugated to render it water-soluble so that it can be excreted in bile.

The total bilirubin level is the combination of both unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin in the blood.

Purpose of the Bilirubin Test

The Bilirubin (Total & Direct) Test has a wide range of essential uses:

• Jaundice Diagnosis: Bilirubin blood levels can cause jaundice, or yellowing of the eyes and skin, if raised.
• Indicates Liver Function: Raised bilirubin levels might mean liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis.
• Bile Duct Obstruction Tests: An obstruction of the bile ducts would result in an increase in the bilirubin level.
• Hemolytic Anemia Monitoring: Abrupt red blood cell destruction causes an increase in the level of bilirubin.

Normal Ranges and Interpretation

It is important to understand bilirubin levels when diagnosing and monitoring different diseases.

Normal Limits:

• Total Bilirubin: 0.1 to 1.2 mg/dL
• Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin: 0.0 to 0.3 mg/dL

Interpretation:

• Mildly Elevated Total Bilirubin: Can suggest on liver damage, bile duct blockage, or hemolytic anemia.
• Mildly Elevated Direct Bilirubin: Can be related to liver disease or bile duct obstruction.
• Mildly Elevated Indirect Bilirubin: May be due to excessive destruction of red blood cells or conditions such as Gilbert's syndrome.

It is always best to interpret these results in conjunction with other clinical information and tests.

When to Get the Test

Your doctor might order the Bilirubin (Total & Direct) Test if you have:

• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and/or eyes.
• Dark Urine: Suggesting potential liver disease.
• Abdominal Pain: Particularly in the upper right region.
• Fatigue: Ongoing exhaustion with no visible cause.
• Nausea or Vomiting: With other symptoms of the liver.

Early diagnosis by this test can result in early treatment and improved health results.

Tests Associated

To get a general idea of liver health, your physician might order other tests in addition to the Bilirubin Test:

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs): Screens other enzymes and proteins secreted by the liver.
• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Screens general health and reveals a broad number of disorders.
• Prothrombin Time (PT): Screens for the blood clot time, remarking on the operation of the liver.
• Ultrasound or CT Scan: Repeats imaging in order to capture structural abnormalities within the liver or bile duct.

These tests, along with the Bilirubin Test, provide you with a complete view of the health of your liver.

The Bilirubin (Total & Direct) Test is an important diagnostic test to determine liver function and disease detection of jaundice conditions. It is beneficial to be aware of your bilirubin levels since it can result in early treatment and improved health. MAX@Home values your health by providing timely and reliable testing services so that you receive accurate results in time.