Bilirubin (Total + Direct)

The Bilirubin test measures the level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of red blood cells, in the blood. It provides insights into liver function and the body’s ability to process waste products. The test differentiates between total bilirubin and direct (conjugated) bilirubin, helping diagnose various liver and blood disorders.

Purpose of the Test:

•Evaluate liver function: Detects liver conditions like hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstructions.

•Assess hemolytic disorders: Identifies excessive red blood cell breakdown.

•Diagnose jaundice: Helps determine whether jaundice is caused by liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or hemolysis.

•Monitor liver disease progression: Tracks liver function in chronic conditions or after treatments.

Components of the Test:

1.Total Bilirubin: Measures the total amount of bilirubin in the blood (both direct and indirect).

2.Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin: Measures bilirubin that has been processed by the liver and is ready for excretion.

Conditions Indicated by Abnormal Levels:

•Elevated Total or Direct Bilirubin:

•Liver diseases: Hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease.

•Bile duct obstruction: Gallstones, tumors.

•Hemolytic disorders: Sickle cell anemia, hemolytic anemia.

•Neonatal jaundice in newborns.

Key Notes:

•High direct bilirubin often indicates a problem with bile excretion (e.g., bile duct obstruction).

•High indirect bilirubin suggests conditions like hemolysis or issues with bilirubin processing in the liver.

•This test is commonly performed as part of a Liver Function Test (LFT).