Total Bilirubin
The Total Bilirubin test measures bilirubin levels in the blood to assess liver and bile function. It is commonly used to investigate jaundice and liver-related conditions.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
3
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about Total Bilirubin
What is the Total Bilirubin test?
The Total Bilirubin test measures the total amount of bilirubin in the blood, including both unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct) bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed when red blood cells are broken down and processed by the liver.
Under normal circumstances, bilirubin is processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Elevated levels occur when this process is disrupted due to liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or increased red blood cell breakdown.
This test is a standard component of liver function testing and is widely used in clinical assessment.
Why do I need a Total Bilirubin test?
Abnormal bilirubin levels can indicate problems with the liver, bile ducts, or blood cells. Symptoms may be subtle or obvious, depending on the cause.
You may need this test if you experience:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine or pale stools
- Abdominal discomfort
- Fatigue or weakness
- Abnormal liver function test results
- Suspected liver or gallbladder disease
- Monitoring known liver conditions
- Unexplained anaemia or red blood cell disorders
Testing helps identify whether bilirubin metabolism or excretion is impaired.
Benefits of the test
- Assesses liver processing function
Reflects how well the liver handles waste products. - Helps diagnose jaundice
Identifies bilirubin-related causes of yellowing. - Detects bile flow obstruction
Elevated levels may indicate cholestasis. - Supports investigation of anaemia
Helps assess red blood cell breakdown. - Part of routine liver assessment
Standard marker in liver function testing. - Useful for disease monitoring
Tracks progression or resolution over time. - Simple blood-based testing
Requires only one blood sample. - Widely clinically accepted
Used across primary and secondary care.
Step-by-step: How we offer testing
Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- A clinician draws a blood sample
- Sample is sent to the laboratory
- Results are issued once analysis is complete
Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
- Book a mobile phlebotomist
- Blood sample taken at your home or hotel
- No need to attend a clinic
- Sample securely transported to the laboratory
Your results explained
Low bilirubin (usually not clinically significant)
- Bilirubin below reference range
- UK standard: <5 µmol/L
- Typically not associated with disease
Normal bilirubin
- Bilirubin within reference range
- UK standard (typical): 5–21 µmol/L
- Suggests normal bilirubin metabolism
High bilirubin
- Bilirubin above reference range
- UK standard: >21 µmol/L
- May indicate liver dysfunction, bile obstruction, or increased red cell breakdown
Further testing may differentiate direct and indirect bilirubin if levels are elevated.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.