Bilirubin is formed when red blood cells are broken down. It travels to the liver, where it is conjugated and excreted in bile. Total bilirubin reflects both the unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct) forms, and high levels cause yellowing of the skin and eyes.
This test is used to evaluate jaundice, monitor known liver disease, assess newborns for hyperbilirubinemia, and help diagnose conditions like Gilbert syndrome, hemolytic anemia, gallstones, and viral hepatitis. When elevated, fractionation into direct and indirect bilirubin helps determine the underlying cause. Sample type is serum.