BILE ACIDS, TOTAL
BILE ACIDS, TOTAL
The bile acids, total test is a diagnostic laboratory test that measures the total amount of bile acids in the blood. Bile acids are substances produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. They are essential for the digestion and absorption of fats in the small intestine. Bile acids are released into the small intestine in response to the consumption of fatty foods, where they aid in the emulsification and breakdown of fats.
This test is often used to assess liver function and diagnose certain liver disorders. An abnormal level of bile acids in the blood may indicate liver dysfunction, cholestasis, or other hepatobiliary disorders.
Thus, getting this test done is recommended to screen and monitor liver diseases
Symptoms of liver disease
The symptoms of liver disease include:
Jaundice
Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Stomach pain
Dark-coloured urine
Light-coloured stool
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Swelling in the legs and ankles
Family history of liver disease
What is the Bile Acids, Total test used for?
Bile acids, total test is recommended
To aid in the evaluation of liver function
To screen for liver infections such as hepatitis and to monitor treatment progress
To track the advancement of liver disease or assess the efficacy of the patient's treatment regimen
As an indicator for intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy
To evaluate hepatobiliary dysfunction
Test preparation
Bile acids, total test requires fasting for up to 12 hours before the test. Infants and pregnant patients do not need to fast. Some medications can affect the bile acid test results, so ensure your doctor is aware of what prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or dietary supplements you are taking. Ask your doctor for details about pre-test preparations, and make sure to follow instructions closely
Interpretation of the Test Results
The units of measurement for the results are micromoles per liter
The reference range for bile acids, total is ≤10 mcmol/L.
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
Elevated levels of bile acids in the blood sample may arise as a result of conditions such as acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
FAQs
How is the sample collected for bile acids, total test?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
What are the risks associated with bile acids, total test?
This test is relatively safe. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of the bile acids, total test?
The bile acids, total test results are usually available within the same working day after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending on the diagnostic clinic
What is intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy?
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), also known as obstetric cholestasis, is a liver disorder that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterized by impaired bile flow within the liver, leading to a build-up of bile acids in the bloodstream
How does the intake of meals affect the levels of bile acids?
Following meals, bile acid levels typically rise, aiding in fat digestion. However, individuals with liver diseases may experience significantly elevated bile acid levels, reflecting impaired liver function and potential complications related to abnormal bile metabolism
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