Bilirubin Test

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The Bilirubin test is a biochemical blood test used to measure the level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed from the breakdown of hemoglobin in red blood cells.

🔹 Types of Bilirubin:
• Total Bilirubin
• Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin
• Indirect (Unconjugated) Bilirubin

🔹 Clinical Use / When doctor advises this test:
This test is commonly advised in patients with jaundice, liver disorders, bile duct obstruction, and hemolytic conditions. It helps in differentiating hepatic, pre-hepatic, and post-hepatic jaundice.

🔹 Sample Required:
🩸 Serum

🔹 Principle (in simple words):
Bilirubin reacts with a diazo reagent to form a colored compound.
The intensity of the color produced is measured and is directly proportional to the bilirubin concentration in the sample.

🔹 Normal Values:
• Total Bilirubin: 0.3 – 1.2 mg/dL
• Direct Bilirubin: 0 – 0.3 mg/dL
(Values may vary slightly between laboratories)

🔹 Increased Bilirubin Levels seen in:
• Jaundice
• Hepatitis
• Liver cirrhosis
• Hemolytic anemia
• Bile duct obstruction

🔹 Clinical Importance :
Bilirubin test is an important part of Liver Function Tests (LFT) and helps clinicians understand liver function and red cell breakdown.

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