Bilirubin, Fractionated

Bilirubin, Fractionated 

The Bilirubin, Fractionated test measures both direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs in the normal catabolic pathway that breaks down red blood cells. 

1. What Does the Test Measure? 
• Total Bilirubin – The sum of direct and indirect bilirubin. 
• Direct (Conjugated) Bilirubin – Water-soluble form processed by the liver and excreted in bile. 
• Indirect (Unconjugated) Bilirubin – Fat-soluble form that circulates in the bloodstream before being taken up by the liver. 

2. Why Is the Test Performed? 
• Evaluate liver function and diagnose liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction. 
• Help diagnose conditions such as hemolytic anemia or Gilbert’s syndrome. 
• Monitor neonatal jaundice in newborns. 
• Investigate unexplained jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes). 

3. Interpreting Results 
🔹 Elevated Total Bilirubin: 
• May indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct blockage, or excessive red blood cell breakdown. 
🔹 Elevated Direct Bilirubin: 
• Suggests cholestasis, bile duct obstruction, or liver disease. 
🔹 Elevated Indirect Bilirubin: 
• Often associated with increased red blood cell breakdown (hemolysis) or inherited conditions like Gilbert’s syndrome. 

4. What Can Affect Results? 
• Liver disease, alcohol use, infections. 
• Certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, birth control pills). 
• Fasting, strenuous exercise, or hemolysis during sample collection. 

5. How Is the Test Performed? 
• A blood sample is drawn from a vein. 
• Fasting may be recommended for more accurate results. 

6. When to See a Doctor 
🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you: 
• Notice yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). 
• Have abdominal pain, dark urine, or unexplained fatigue. 
• Receive abnormal test results requiring further evaluation. 

🔹 Key Takeaways 
✅ The Bilirubin, Fractionated test is essential for evaluating liver function and diagnosing causes of jaundice. 
✅ Distinguishing between direct and indirect bilirubin levels helps pinpoint the cause of bilirubin elevation. 
✅ Always interpret results in the context of symptoms and other diagnostic tests.