Biochemistry
Royal Stoke University Hospital, County Hospital, Leighton Hospital, Macclesfield District General Hospital
Add-on requests: accepted up to 48 hours post sampling
Minimum Retest Interval: NA
Collect the blood sample using normal venepuncture technique into a serum (gel/plain) or lithium-heparin plasma tube.
Samples should be sent to the laboratory on the same day as collection to ensure sample integrity is maintained. If a delay in receipt of the sample is anticipated, please contact the laboratory to discuss storage requirements.
Stable in separated serum for 1 day at room temperature and 7 days at 4-8oC.
For generic information on test requesting, sample labelling and packaging, and sample transport – see the frequently asked questions here.
Adult sample type:
Paediatric sample type:
Lithium-heparin plasma, Plain serum
Based on receipt at testing site.
Within 24 hours.
|
Age |
Total bilirubin reference range (μmol/L) |
|
1 day |
0 - 35 |
|
2-13 days |
0 - 200 |
|
≥ 14 days |
0 - 21 |
Results outside the reference range do not necessarily indicate disease. Similarly, results within the reference range do not preclude abnormality. Please contact the Duty Biochemist for discussion of individual patient results.
Total bilirubin comprises both unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin fractions and is part of the liver function test profile. Total bilirubin is useful in the investigation of jaundice.
If raised, if may be beneficial to also determine the conjugated (direct) bilirubin fraction. This is a separate test, that can be ordered by users if required.
Factors that significantly affect result
There are a number of non-pathological factors that can influence levels of specific analytes, giving falsely elevated or reduced levels. If you require more information regarding the effects of these factors on the individual test results, please contact the Duty Biochemist.
Serum/plasma samples are routinely screened for the presence of haemolysis, icterus and lipaemia. Results are not reported if one or more of these has been detected at levels deemed to have had a significant impact on the accuracy of the test.
For more information, please see the following: https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/bilirubin
Reviewed / Updated On: 02/12/2025
