What is bilirubin and why measure it?
Bilirubin is a component of bile; it is largely produced by the breakdown of haemoglobin following the destruction of red blood cells
In order to reach the liver, it must bind to albumin (indirect bilirubin), where it conjugates with glucuronic acid (direct bilirubin), becomes soluble and can be excreted by bile or urine.
Why measure bilirubin?
This test can be performed in two ways: it can measure total bilirubin and fractional bilirubin.
Bilirubin is an indicator of liver health and can be useful in assessing the presence of biliary obstruction, hepatitis, cirrhosis, jaundice.
If it is direct bilirubin that is increased, the indication is for liver damage
An increase in indirect bilirubin, on the other hand, may suggest an alteration in the haemoglobin breakdown cycle.
Are there any preparation rules?
The blood sample is usually taken in the morning. The doctor will suggest whether it is necessary to be fasting.
The test is neither dangerous nor painful.
The patient may feel the pinch of the needle entering the arm.
The test is performed by means of a simple blood sample.
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