Bilirubin Total

Also known as Serum Bilirubin, TSB, Total Serum Bilirubin

₹139

This test is for

Male, Female

Understanding Bilirubin Total

What is Bilirubin Total?

A Bilirubin Total test measures the amount of bilirubin (indirect and direct) in your body. This test may be performed if your doctor suspects a liver disorder, like jaundice, gallstones, hepatitis, etc. It is done as part of routine health checkups or a liver function test to monitor your overall liver health.

Bilirubin is a byproduct of old, broken, or damaged red blood cells. When red blood cells complete their life cycle of 120 days in your body, they break down and move to the liver for processing. Your liver converts bilirubin and other waste products into a fluid called bile. This bile is passed out of your body through the intestines. Bilirubin is the pigment that gives bile its distinctive yellow color.

You may need a Bilirubin Total test if you experience symptoms suggestive of liver problems, such as extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, belly pain, dark-colored urine, pale-colored stool, and the yellowing of the skin and eyes. This test also helps to monitor jaundice in newborns (neonatal jaundice) or check the blockage in the bile ducts that may be due to gallstones. Usually, no special preparation is required for this test; eat and drink as per your daily routine.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your liver health and formulate your overall treatment plan.

What is Bilirubin Total used for?

A Bilirubin Total test is done:

As part of routine health checkups.
As part of a liver function test.
To help detect liver diseases, such as jaundice or hemolytic anemia.
To monitor an existing liver disease and its treatment response.
To find out if there is a blockage in the bile duct.
In case of a history of excessive alcohol drinking.
To detect and monitor neonatal jaundice.
In case of exposure to the hepatitis virus.

What does Bilirubin Total measure?

A Bilirubin Total examination quantifies the levels of total bilirubin in the body, encompassing both indirect (unconjugated) and direct (conjugated) bilirubin. Bilirubin, a yellowish waste substance, is primarily generated during the breakdown of aging red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. After their typical lifespan of 120 days, RBCs disintegrate in the liver, leading to the production of a substantial amount of bilirubin. It is crucial for this bilirubin to be eliminated from the body.

Interpreting Bilirubin Total results

Interpretations

The normal values of total bilirubin may range from 0.30 mg/dL to 1.20 mg/dL.

The reference range may vary from lab to lab*

Increased total bilirubin which is mainly unconjugated may be due to hemolytic anemia, transfusion reactions
Increased total bilirubin which is mainly conjugated may be due to viral hepatitis, drug reactions, alcoholic liver disease, gall stones, or any obstruction in the bile ducts
Low levels of bilirubin are usually not a cause for concern and therefore not monitored

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bilirubin Total

Frequently Asked Questions about Bilirubin Total

Q. Why is a Bilirubin Total test done?

A Bilirubin Total test is done to check your overall liver health. This test also helps to detect jaundice in newborns.

Q. Is fasting required before a Bilirubin Total test?

No, fasting is not required before a Bilirubin Total test. You can eat or drink as per your routine before the test.

Q. What are the symptoms of high bilirubin levels?

You may experience symptoms such as the yellowing of your eyes and skin, swelling and pain in the belly, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fatigue when you have high bilirubin levels.

Q. How can I improve my elevated bilirubin levels?

You must consult your doctor if you have elevated bilirubin levels. However, staying hydrated and increasing fiber intake in your diet, such as whole grains, berries, dry fruits, broccoli, and beans, can improve your bilirubin levels.

Q. What other tests are advised along with a Bilirubin Total test?

Other tests that are advised along with a Bilirubin Total test include alkaline phosphatase, SGOT, and SGPT tests. In case hemolytic anemia is suspected, then the doctor may advise other tests, such as a complete blood count, reticulocyte count, haptoglobin, and lactate dehydrogenase test.

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