Bilirubin, Direct
CPT Code(s):
82248
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride,Sodium Heparin, or EDTA plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
8 hours
Refrigerated:
5 days
Frozen:
30 days
Clinical Significance
The Bilirubin, Direct test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of clinical chemistry and hepatology. This test measures the level of direct bilirubin in a patient's blood, providing valuable information about liver function and the excretion of bilirubin.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Bilirubin, Direct test include:
1. Evaluation of Liver Function: The Bilirubin, Direct test is a component of liver function tests and aids in assessing liver health. Direct bilirubin, also known as conjugated bilirubin, is a form of bilirubin that has been processed by the liver and is ready for excretion. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin can indicate impaired liver function or hepatobiliary disorders, such as obstructive jaundice, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis.
2. Diagnosis of Biliary Obstruction: The Bilirubin, Direct test is particularly useful in the diagnosis of biliary obstruction. Obstruction of the bile ducts prevents the normal flow of bile from the liver to the intestines, resulting in an accumulation of direct bilirubin in the blood. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin, along with other clinical and laboratory findings, help differentiate between different causes of biliary obstruction and guide further investigations and management.
3. Monitoring Liver Diseases: The Bilirubin, Direct test is valuable in monitoring the progression and treatment response of liver diseases. Serial measurements of direct bilirubin levels can help assess the severity of liver dysfunction, track disease progression, and monitor the effectiveness of interventions or medications aimed at improving liver function.
4. Assessment of Neonatal Jaundice: In newborns, the Bilirubin, Direct test is used to evaluate neonatal jaundice. Elevated levels of direct bilirubin in newborns can indicate conditions such as biliary atresia or other liver disorders. Timely detection and monitoring of direct bilirubin levels assist in the early diagnosis and management of neonatal jaundice, ensuring the well-being of the infant.
5. Prognostic Indicator in Liver Diseases: Direct bilirubin levels can serve as a prognostic indicator in certain liver diseases. In conditions such as acute liver failure or end-stage liver disease, higher levels of direct bilirubin may suggest a poorer prognosis. Serial measurements of direct bilirubin can provide valuable information about disease progression and guide treatment decisions.
In summary, the Bilirubin, Direct test has specific clinical significance in assessing liver function, diagnosing biliary obstruction, monitoring liver diseases, evaluating neonatal jaundice, and serving as a prognostic indicator in liver diseases. By measuring direct bilirubin levels, this test aids healthcare providers in diagnosing liver disorders, monitoring disease progression, and guiding appropriate management strategies for optimal patient care.