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BLOOD BILIRUBIN:

Test evaluates liver function and the condition of red blood cells. Diagnoses jaundice. Monitors progression of jaundice. Helps confirm diagnosis of obstruction of the bile ducts. Helps diagnose cause of anemia.

Preparation:
Do not eat any food or drink and liquid for at least 12 hours before the test.

Time before test results available:
Test requires only a few minutes in the laboratory. Time before results are reported to the doctor varies from a few minutes to a few days.

Normal Values:
Adult indirect bilirubin levels--1.1 mg/dl or less
Adult direct bilirubin levels--Less than 0.5 mg/dl
Total bilirubin in a newborn--1 to 12mg/dl

What "high" or "increased" may indicate:
Congenital enzyme deficiencies (Gilbert's disease)
Liver damage
Severe hemolytic anemia
Obstruction of bile ducts from stones or tumors
If over 20mg/dl in a newborn, exchange transfusion may be needed

Taking these drugs may affect test results:
Aminophenol
Anti-malarials
Ascorbic acid
Dextran
Epinephrine
Ethoxazene
Histidine
Indican
Isoproterenol
Levodopa
Methyldopa
Novobiocin
Phenazopyridine
Phenelzine
Primaquine
Rifampin
Streptomycin
Sulfa drugs
Theophylline
Tyrosine

Other factors that may affect test results:
Exposure to direct sunlight or ultraviolet light may increase bilirubin levels.
Failure to fast overnight


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