A direct bilirubin test measures the levels of conjugated bilirubin, which is processed by the liver. It can be measured directly and is helpful in diagnosing liver, hemolytic, hematologic, and metabolic disorders. Read More
Bilirubin is a substance made when your body breaks down red blood cells. This is a normal process. Bilirubin is also part of bile, which your liver makes to help digest the food you eat.
A small amount of bilirubin in your blood is normal. Healthy adults make 250 to 350 milligrams (mg) of bilirubin each day.
Some bilirubin is bound to a certain protein (albumin) in the blood. This type of bilirubin is called unconjugated, or indirect, bilirubin. In the liver, bilirubin is changed into a form that your body can get rid of. This is called conjugated bilirubin or direct bilirubin. This bilirubin travels from the liver into the small intestine. A very small amount passes into your kidneys and is excreted in your urine. This bilirubin also gives urine its distinctive yellow color.
This test is often done to look for liver problems, such as hepatitis, or blockages, such as gallstones.
The difference between indirect and direct bilirubin :
Indirect bilirubin is the initial form produced from red blood cell breakdown. It travels to the liver.
Direct bilirubin is the processed, water-soluble form that is excreted from the body.
Direct bilirubin is conjugated and easily removed by the body, while indirect bilirubin is combined with a protein in the bloodstream and is tougher for the body to eliminate.
Elevated bilirubin levels can signal underlying liver dysfunction or disease, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and bile duct obstructions. Additionally, bilirubin testing is essential in diagnosing various blood disorders, such as hemolytic anemia, where accelerated red blood cell breakdown occurs.
Total Bilirubin Test: Measures both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin levels in the blood. It helps assess liver function and potential jaundice.
Indirect Bilirubin Test: Measures unconjugated bilirubin. It's important for determining the cause of elevated total bilirubin when direct bilirubin levels are normal or low.
Bile acid tests: measure the levels of bile acids in the blood. Bile acids are produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.
It will take several hours to get the result.
Fever
Extreme fatigue
Loss of appetite
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Bloating
Vomiting
Jaundice (yellowish coloration of the skin and sclera of the eyes)
Itching
Dark urine
Abdominal swelling
Clay-colored stools
Fatigue
Darkening of urine.
