A bilirubin blood test measures the level of bilirubin in your blood.
What is Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. It passes through the liver and is eventually excreted from the body. High levels of bilirubin can indicate problems with the liver, bile ducts, or other health issues. A bilirubin test is commonly used to assess liver health and diagnose conditions like jaundice, anemia, and liver disease. The test can be performed on both infants and adults. For newborns, a bilirubin test is often used to monitor jaundice. In adults, elevated levels can signify liver or bile duct problems.
Types of Bilirubin Tests
While the question focuses on the blood test, it's important to note that bilirubin can also be measured in urine. However, the most common test is the blood test which determines the amount of bilirubin present. This test can further differentiate between direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin, providing more specific information about the cause of elevated bilirubin levels.
- Direct Bilirubin: This type of bilirubin is already processed by the liver and is water-soluble.
- Indirect Bilirubin: This type of bilirubin is unprocessed and not yet water-soluble.
Elevated levels of either type can indicate different underlying health problems. A complete blood count (CBC) might accompany a bilirubin test to get a broader picture of your overall health.
Why is a Bilirubin Blood Test Ordered?
Doctors order bilirubin tests for various reasons, including:
- Detecting and monitoring jaundice in newborns and adults
- Assessing liver function
- Investigating anemia
- Diagnosing liver diseases (e.g., hepatitis, cirrhosis)
- Monitoring the effectiveness of liver disease treatment
