What is this test?
This test is used to check for presence of liver disease or damage
 
Sample required
Blood.
 
Patient preparation
You may need to fast (nothing but water) for four hours before the test. Inform the doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before this test.
 
Turn-around time (How long does it take?)
2 Hours.
 
Basis of the Test
Bilirubin is an orange-yellow pigment, a waste product primarily produced by the normal breakdown of heme a component of hemoglobin, which is found in red blood cells (RBCs). A small amount (approximately 250 to 350 milligrams) of bilirubin is produced daily in a normal, healthy adult.If the bilirubin level increases in the blood, a person may appear jaundiced, with a yellowing of the skin and/or whites of the eyes. The pattern of bilirubin test results can give the health practitioner information regarding the condition that may be present ie with liver diseases such as cirrhosis or inherited problems.