Concerned about liver function, experiencing unusual symptoms, or wondering how effectively your liver is processing and eliminating waste from your body?
Assess your liver's processing function with the Direct Bilirubin Test. This analysis measures conjugated bilirubin levels, indicating how effectively your liver is processing and preparing waste products for elimination, providing crucial insights into liver health and bile duct function.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
The Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin Test gives you a detailed look at how well your liver is handling one of its most important cleanup jobs. Think of your liver as a sophisticated recycling center that processes yellow waste (called bilirubin) left behind when old red blood cells break down naturally in your body. This test specifically measures the "processed" bilirubin – the waste that your liver has successfully packaged and prepared for removal through your bile and digestive system, much like how a factory packages products for safe shipping.
When this test shows elevated levels, it typically signals that something is interfering with your liver's ability to move processed waste out of your body – perhaps a blocked bile duct (like a clogged drain), liver cell damage, or conditions like hepatitis or gallstones. What makes this test particularly valuable is that it helps distinguish between different types of liver issues: whether the problem stems from your liver cells themselves or from blockages in the pathways that carry waste away. Combined with other liver tests, it gives your healthcare provider crucial clues about what's happening inside your body's most hardworking organ, helping them determine the best path forward for your health.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
You may benefit from the Bilirubin - Direct (Conjugated) Test
Essential for individuals with liver symptoms, jaundice, suspected bile duct problems, or anyone needing comprehensive liver function assessment.
Upper abdominal pain or discomfort
Feeling tired all the time
How to prepare
Fast for 8-12 hours before blood collection if requested by healthcare provider. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing. Inform provider of all medications and supplements as some may affect results.
Understanding results
Results show direct bilirubin levels compared to normal ranges. Elevated levels may indicate bile duct obstruction, liver cell damage, or cholestatic conditions. Results interpreted alongside other liver function tests for comprehensive assessment.
After the test
Address underlying causes of elevated direct bilirubin through appropriate medical treatment. May include bile duct procedures, medication adjustments, lifestyle modifications, or treatment of underlying liver conditions. Work with hepatologists or gastroenterologists for complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Direct (conjugated) bilirubin has been processed by the liver and is ready for elimination, while indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin hasn't been processed yet. Elevated direct bilirubin suggests liver or bile duct problems.
Common causes include bile duct obstruction (gallstones, tumors), liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis), certain medications, genetic conditions, or problems with bile flow within the liver.
While it indicates a problem with liver function or bile flow, the severity depends on the underlying cause. Some conditions are easily treatable, while others require ongoing management.
Yes, many medications can cause cholestatic liver injury or interfere with bile flow, leading to elevated direct bilirubin. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause - it may involve removing bile duct obstructions, treating liver disease, adjusting medications, or managing underlying conditions affecting liver function.
Yes, isolated elevation of direct bilirubin specifically suggests problems with bile excretion or liver cell function and warrants further investigation to determine the underlying cause.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
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Book your test
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services.
Most collection centres accept walk-ins. Some may require a booking - check details when you click on your chosen location.
If your test needs fasting, we’ll include that in your instructions after you order. Fasting usually means no food for 8–12 hours, but water is fine.
Just your pathology referral form (we email it to you)
Of course. Just maybe don’t bring the friend who faints at the sight of blood.
They’re the highly trained professionals who take your blood sample - with a steady hand and a sharp needle. They love blood, but don’t worry… they’re not vampires. Just legends who make blood tests quick, clean, and (almost) painless.
Some of our tests include Urine, Stool, Saliva and more. Each test will have a clear description on what sample you will need to give and instructions on how.
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