Bilirubin

Understanding the marker

Bilirubin forms when old red blood cells are broken down. The liver processes it and removes it through bile. The blood test helps assess these processes alongside other liver results.

Bilirubin is interpreted with other liver tests and, when needed, bilirubin fractions and haemolysis investigations. Gilbert syndrome can cause a benign isolated elevation, but that explanation should not be assumed for every abnormal result or for jaundice with other symptoms.

What does high Bilirubin mean?

A high bilirubin can reflect changes in red-cell breakdown or in how the liver processes and removes bilirubin. The bilirubin fractions, other liver tests, blood count and symptoms help distinguish these patterns.

What does low Bilirubin mean?

An isolated low bilirubin is usually of limited significance. It is not a complete assessment of liver function or red-cell breakdown.