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What is the Bilirubin Test?
A bilirubin test determines the amount of bilirubin present in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced in the liver when red blood cells (RBCs) break down. This yellowish chemical is formed by the regular breakdown of haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying protein in RBCs. The iron-containing portion of haemoglobin is transformed to bilirubin in this breakdown process. Bilirubin is eliminated from the body after passing through the liver.
High bilirubin concentrations might indicate a liver issue. They can be induced by a faster red blood cell breakdown rate, called hemolysis. High bilirubin levels can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes. Abnormally high bilirubin levels might also indicate various liver or bile duct disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the bilirubin test used for?
A bilirubin test is done to determine the amount of bilirubin present in your blood. It has uses in assessing health issues like jaundice, anaemia, and liver disease. In newborns, the hepatic system takes a longer timeframe to begin operating normally. Their livers are not developed enough to eliminate bilirubin. High bilirubin levels can cause damage to their brains. Hence, the bilirubin test is frequently used to identify jaundice in newborns.
Understanding the test results of the bilirubin test
Although normal findings might vary, excessive bilirubin levels may indicate abnormal liver function. This may not always signify a health issue that requires treatment. Medication, certain meals, and strenuous workouts can also induce higher-than-normal bilirubin levels. Consult our specialist at Yashoda hospitals to find out what your results signify.
Why do I need the bilirubin test?
If untreated, persistently high bilirubin levels might lead to disorders. The bilirubin test helps diagnose hepatitis, cirrhosis, obstructions in structures transporting bile from your liver, problems in RBC production, etc. Repeated bilirubin tests can assist a doctor in evaluating your condition and response to therapy.
What happens during the bilirubin test?
This test requires a small blood sample. Venipuncture is performed on the arm or hand, and blood samples are collected. The injection site will then be covered with a bandage.Â
What is the normal range of bilirubin?
Normal values vary significantly between laboratories, ranging from 0.2 to 1.2 mg/dL. A total bilirubin test result should be 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for adults and 1 mg/dL for youngsters under 18. Direct bilirubin levels of 0.3 mg/dL are considered normal.
Do I need to fast before a bilirubin blood test?
Before the test, you must not eat or drink anything for at least 4 hours. Different medication types can affect the amount of bilirubin in your blood. The doctor may advise pausing any medications that interfere with the test.
Does high bilirubin indicate liver damage?
Yes, elevated bilirubin levels may indicate liver illness or injury. Higher than normal direct bilirubin levels in the blood may suggest that the liver is not eliminating bilirubin effectively. Indirect bilirubin levels that are abnormally high may reveal other health conditions.
How do I prepare for a bilirubin test?
A bilirubin blood test does not need any extra preparation. You may need to fast for some hours before the test if your health care practitioner has ordered additional blood tests. Your healthcare professional will inform you regarding further instructions.
Can vitamins cause high bilirubin?
A moderate amount of bilirubin in the blood is normal. A remarkable decrease in calorie intake (e.g., fasting or dieting), high quantities of vitamin B3 (niacin), or severe flu can cause bilirubin levels to spike.
What is a bad bilirubin level?
Bilirubin levels in adults should be less than one milligram per deciliter. Bilirubin readings above 2.5 milligrams per deciliter are considered high. Jaundice, a disorder that gives a yellow tint to the skin, eyes, and the bottom of the tongue, happens due to high bilirubin levels.Â
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References:
https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/bilirubin-test
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/17845-bilirubin
https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/bilirubin-blood-test/
https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspxcontenttypeid=167&contentid=total_bilirubin_blood
https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw3474
https://www.medicinenet.com/bilirubin_and_bilirubin_blood_test/article.htm
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