Bilirubin, Total

Introduction

Bilirubin is a degradation product formed during the normal and abnormal destruction of red blood cells. Measurements of bilirubin are used in the diagnosis and treatment of liver, hemolytic, hematological, and metabolic disorders, as well as the detection of neonatal jaundice and hemolytic disease in newborns.

Pricing

$49

How to order a test

What is Included?

Measurement of total bilirubin levels in a blood sample by the diazonium salt methodology.

Turnaround Time

1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.

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Additional Information and Resources

» What are the signs of liver disease? ​

Preparation Before Specimen Collection

None

Specimen Type

Blood

Volume

50 μL in a microtainer

Container

Microtainer (regular blood tube)

Collection Method

This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.

1. First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
2. Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
3. Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
4. Wipe away the first drop of blood.
5. Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
6. Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
7. Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.

NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.

Specimen Storage

Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.

Ensure that the blood sample is not exposed to bright light.

Specimen Stability

Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.

Causes for Rejection

• Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
• Incorrect specimen collection
• Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
• Incorrect specimen volume

Purpose

To measure total bilirubin levels in a blood sample predominantly for the detection of liver disease.

Bilirubin is a normal degradation product from the destruction of aged or abnormal red blood cells. However, elevated levels can occur when there is increased breakdown of red blood cells or impaired removal of bilirubin from the body. Blockages in the bile ducts of the liver and gallbladder can cause an increase in bilirubin, as well as other liver diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Bilirubin is also increased in individuals with Gilbert’s syndrome, an inherited condition in which the liver doesn’t properly process bilirubin.

Limitations

• This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
• These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
• Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
• Patients with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia may have artificially elevated bilirubin values from this assay due to certain paraproteins, particularly IgM.
• Indocyanine green (ICG) may interfere with this assay. Specimens from individuals undergoing evaluations using ICG must be collected after ICG has been eliminated.
• Fasting, caffeine, and certain medications and supplements, including some birth control pills, some antibiotics, Valium, and vitamin C can affect bilirubin levels.

Methodology

Diazonium salt methodology (Alinity c Total Bilirubin assay)

Reference Intervals

Normal total bilirubin levels in serum or plasma are 0.2 – 1.2 mg/dL.

This reference range was obtained from Reed R. (2020). Clinical Chemistry Learning Guide Series. Editors Armbruster D & Cooper K. Abbott. .