Bilirubin, Total (TBIL) Blood Test

A bilirubin blood test measures the levels of bilirubin in your blood. In children and adults, doctors use it to diagnose and monitor liver and bile duct diseases. These include cirrhosis, hepatitis, and gallstones. It’ll also help determine if you have sickle cell disease or other conditions that cause hemolytic anemia. That’s a disorder where red blood cells are destroyed faster than they’re made.

Normal bilirubin levels are generally less than 1 milligram per deciliter (mg/dL) or < 17 μmol/L for adults. Adults with jaundice generally have bilirubin levels greater than 2.5mg/dL (or 42 μmol/L). In an otherwise healthy newborn, bilirubin levels greater than 15 mg/dL may cause problems.

The condition of having high bilirubin levels is called hyperbilirubinemia. High bilirubin levels can be toxic to nerves and cause brain damage. Elevated levels may indicate liver damage or disease. Higher than normal levels of direct bilirubin in your blood may indicate your liver isn't clearing bilirubin properly.

However, following these four tips can help you boost overall liver health in addition to medical guidance.

• Stay hydrated. Staying hydrated helps lower bilirubin levels by facilitating the removal of waste from the body.
• Consume fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Increase your intake of fiber.
• Avoid alcohol.

Patients with high concentrations of bilirubin (>100 μmol/l) or with evidence of sepsis or cholangitis are at high risk of developing complications and should be referred as an emergency because delays in treatment adversely affect prognosis.