Total bilirubin blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells reach the end of their life and their haemoglobin is broken down. It travels to the liver, where it is processed so that it can be passed into bile and leave the body in the stool. Total bilirubin is the sum of the unprocessed form and the processed form in your blood.

Because bilirubin depends on red cell turnover, liver processing and free flow of bile, a change in the level can reflect what is happening at any of these steps. It is usually read with liver enzymes such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and GGT, and sometimes with a full blood count.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. No GP referral is needed.

Who it is for

• You have noticed a yellow tinge to your skin or the whites of your eyes, and you are otherwise well.
• A previous test showed a raised bilirubin and you want to repeat it.
• You drink alcohol regularly or take medicines that can affect the liver.
• You have been told you may have Gilbert's syndrome and want to understand your level.
• You are monitoring liver health as part of a wider wellbeing plan.

Understanding your result

A mildly raised bilirubin with otherwise normal liver tests is very often due to Gilbert's syndrome, a common, harmless inherited trait in which the liver processes bilirubin a little more slowly, especially during fasting, illness or stress. Higher levels can be seen when red blood cells are broken down faster than usual, with liver inflammation or damage, or when bile flow is blocked, for example by gallstones. Low bilirubin is not usually a concern.

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. A result outside it is a prompt for discussion with your practitioner, not a diagnosis. If you develop yellow skin with pain in your upper abdomen, a fever, dark urine or pale stools, see a doctor promptly.

Preparing for your test

Fasting is not required, but avoid long periods without food before the test, as fasting can raise bilirubin in people with Gilbert's syndrome. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours and heavy exercise the day before. Tell us about the medicines and herbal remedies you take, as some affect liver tests.

Bilirubin is part of the Liver Function Check, which reads it with the main liver enzymes and albumin, and of Omnia Essential. You can also compare every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is a total bilirubin test in Chiswick?

The total bilirubin test costs £59. This covers the sample at our clinic, laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What is Gilbert's syndrome?

It is a common inherited trait in which bilirubin is processed more slowly. It is harmless, does not need treatment and often shows up as a mildly raised bilirubin on routine tests.

Can bilirubin alone tell me if my liver is healthy?

No. It is one part of the picture. Liver enzymes, albumin and sometimes a scan are needed to assess liver health properly.

Why might my bilirubin be higher after fasting?

Going without food slows bilirubin processing, particularly in Gilbert's syndrome, so a longer fast can push the level up for a while.