What the Bilirubin Test (Total, Direct & Indirect) measures
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when old red blood cells are broken down. In its first form, called indirect or unconjugated bilirubin, it travels to the liver, which converts it into direct or conjugated bilirubin and passes it out in bile. This test reports total bilirubin and splits it into the two forms, and the split is what makes it useful. When indirect bilirubin makes up most of a raised total, the cause usually lies before the liver: faster breakdown of red cells (haemolysis), or Gilbert syndrome, a common and harmless inherited condition in which bilirubin rises a little during fasting or illness. When direct bilirubin is raised, the problem is more likely in the liver itself or in the bile ducts, for example hepatitis or a gallstone blocking the flow of bile. Visible jaundice, yellow eyes and skin, usually appears only once the total is well above normal. Bilirubin is also part of the liver function test, so if your doctor wants the liver enzymes as well, the full LFT is usually the better booking.
Price: the Bilirubin Test (Total, Direct & Indirect) costs ₹200 at Pure Bliss (MRP ₹250), with the sample collected at our Action Area 2, New Town centre or at your home.
Who this test is for
- Yellow eyes or skin, dark urine or pale stools
- Follow-up of hepatitis or known liver disease
- Suspected haemolysis, or a doctor checking for Gilbert syndrome
- Repeat testing after an earlier raised bilirubin
How to prepare, the sample, and when to expect the report
Preparation
Our team will tell you when booking whether a few hours without food are preferred. Avoid a heavy, fatty meal just before the test. If you have Gilbert syndrome, mention it, as a long fast can raise the reading.
Sample
Blood, from a vein in the arm (serum).
Reporting time
Morning samples are reported the same day; later samples by the next day.
Reading the result
Newborn babies have different expected values, which are interpreted by the paediatrician. Reference ranges differ between laboratories, so your report lists the laboratory’s own range beside each value. A result outside the range does not always mean illness; ask your doctor to explain it.
- Centre or home collection
- NABL-accredited Redcliffe Labs collection centre
- How collection works →