Bilirubin, Direct
Blood Sample
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What is Direct Bilirubin Test?
Bilirubin, Direct blood test is used to measure the amount of bilirubin present in the blood.
The breakdown of red blood cells produces a yellow substance known as bilirubin. Bilirubin is eventually eliminated from the body after passing through the liver. Increased bilirubin levels could be a sign of several liver or bile duct issues. Sometimes increased hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells) can also raise bilirubin levels.
Doctors can diagnose conditions like jaundice, hepatitis, cirrhosis, gallbladder disease, and hemolytic anemia by checking the bilirubin levels in the blood and urine. Healthcare providers order a Bilirubin, Direct test to screen and monitor liver diseases.
Symptoms of Liver Dysfunction
In case of the following signs and symptoms, Bilirubin, Direct test is performed:
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Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice)
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Dark yellow urine
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Light gray or clay-coloured stools
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Nausea
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Vomiting
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Fatigue
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Belly pain or swelling
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Bile duct blockage
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Hemolytic anemia
Who should get tested?
People with the following conditions should get tested for direct bilirubin levels:
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Anemia
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Cirrhosis
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A blood transfusion reaction
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Gilbert syndrome – an inherited disorder where there is a deficiency of the bilirubin-processing enzyme that helps in bilirubin breakdown
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Viral hepatitis
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An adverse reaction to drugs
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Alcoholic liver disease
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Gallstones
Preparation for the test
Bilirubin, Direct blood test requires fasting for up to 4 hours before the test. Some medications can affect the bilirubin 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 results
| Parameters | Normal bilirubin test values |
|---|---|
| Conjugated bilirubin (direct) | 0.0 - 0.3mg/dL |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
Higher conjugated bilirubin levels in the blood sample may be caused due to gallstones, drug reactions, bile duct obstructions, blood infections (septicemia), sickle cell anemia, certain cancers, certain rare inherited diseases, and bile duct scarring.
FAQs on Bilirubin, Direct
A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm using a fine needle. This procedure usually takes no longer than five minutes.
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight soreness or tenderness around the site where the blood is drawn. Rarely, the site can become infected.
Your Bilirubin, Direct test result can be affected by pregnancy and strenuous exercise. Additionally, long-term fasting or anorexia, consuming vitamin C supplements, androgen hormones, and medications like phenazopyridine and rifampin can all negatively impact your test result.
An abnormal bilirubin test result can indicate liver damage caused by conditions like gall stones, bile duct obstruction, etc. Bilirubin, Direct test result is used to help diagnose your condition or determine the appropriate treatment for you. In some cases, this blood test is not enough to diagnose a specific liver disease and requires further tests, like imaging tests, a liver biopsy, or blood tests for certain viruses, to make a final diagnosis. Your healthcare provider will decide on a suitable treatment plan for you based on your diagnosis.
Your bilirubin levels will decrease if the condition that is raising them can be successfully treated or managed. Your doctor will advise you on the best course of action based on the severity of the liver disease or damage. A healthy diet, eliminating drugs and alcohol, and regular exercise will generally lessen the overall stress on your liver.
Bilirubin, Direct
