Bilirubin, Total
CPT Code(s):
82247
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, Total test holds specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in the field of clinical chemistry and hepatology. This test measures the level of total bilirubin in a patient's blood, providing valuable information about liver function and the breakdown of red blood cells.
The clinical significance and diagnostic use of the Bilirubin, Total test include:
1. Assessment of Liver Function: The Bilirubin, Total test is a component of liver function tests and aids in evaluating liver health. Total bilirubin comprises both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin. Elevated levels of total bilirubin can indicate liver dysfunction or hepatobiliary disorders, such as hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, or biliary obstruction.
2. Evaluation of Jaundice: Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. The Bilirubin, Total test is used to diagnose and monitor jaundice. Increased total bilirubin levels can help differentiate between different causes of jaundice, such as liver disease, hemolytic anemia, or Gilbert's syndrome.
3. Monitoring Liver Diseases: The Bilirubin, Total test is valuable in monitoring the progression and treatment response of liver diseases. Serial measurements of total 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 Hemolytic Anemia: Hemolytic anemia is a condition characterized by the increased destruction of red blood cells, leading to elevated bilirubin levels. The Bilirubin, Total test aids in the assessment and diagnosis of hemolytic anemia. Increased total bilirubin, along with other clinical and laboratory findings, helps differentiate between hemolytic anemia and other types of anemia.
5. Prognostic Indicator in Liver Diseases: Total 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 total bilirubin may suggest a poorer prognosis. Serial measurements of total bilirubin can provide valuable information about disease progression and guide treatment decisions.
In summary, the Bilirubin, Total test has specific clinical significance in assessing liver function, diagnosing and monitoring jaundice, evaluating liver diseases, assessing hemolytic anemia, and serving as a prognostic indicator in liver diseases. By measuring total bilirubin levels, this test aids healthcare providers in diagnosing and monitoring liver disorders, evaluating anemia, and guiding appropriate treatment strategies for optimal patient care.