Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced as a by-product of the breakdown of hemoglobin, which is a component of red blood cells. The liver plays a key role in processing bilirubin so that it can be eliminated from the body through the feces. There are two main types of bilirubin: unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct). The Bilirubin Unconjugated, or Indirect, test specifically measures the amount of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood.
Unconjugated bilirubin is not water-soluble and needs to be transported to the liver, where it gets converted into the conjugated form. Conjugated bilirubin is water-soluble and can be excreted through the bile into the intestine.
The Bilirubin Unconjugated test is done to:
Evaluate the liver’s function and its ability to process bilirubin.
Diagnose conditions that cause increased destruction of red blood cells.
Monitor the progression and treatment of liver diseases.
Help in the diagnosis of jaundice.
Evaluate the risk of kernicterus (a type of brain damage) in newborns with jaundice.
The test is conducted by drawing blood from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. Unconjugated bilirubin is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or micromoles per liter (µmol/L).
Normal Range: The normal range for unconjugated bilirubin is typically 0.2 to 1.0 mg/dL, but this can vary slightly depending on the laboratory.
High Levels: Elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin could indicate hemolytic anemia, Gilbert's syndrome, or other conditions that increase the rate of red blood cell breakdown or impair the liver's ability to conjugate bilirubin.
Low Levels: Unconjugated bilirubin levels are not usually clinically significant if they are low.
Test Name Bilirubin Unconjugated (Indirect)
Sample Type Blood
Preparations Required No special preparation is required for this test. However, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of any medications or supplements you are taking.
Report Time 4 hours
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
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Frequently Asked Questions
Unconjugated bilirubin is produced from the breakdown of hemoglobin and is not water-soluble. It travels to the liver where it is converted into a water-soluble form, known as conjugated bilirubin, which can be excreted from the body.
High levels can be due to increased breakdown of red blood cells, impaired uptake of bilirubin by the liver, or reduced conjugation of bilirubin.
Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, fatigue, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Gilbert's syndrome is a common, mild liver condition in which the liver doesn't properly process bilirubin. It can lead to slightly elevated levels of unconjugated bilirubin and mild jaundice.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. In cases of Gilbert's syndrome, usually no treatment is required. In cases of hemolytic anemia, treatment may include blood transfusions or medications. For liver diseases, lifestyle changes, medications, or even liver transplantation may be necessary.
In newborns, extremely high levels of unconjugated bilirubin can be toxic to the brain and can cause a condition called kernicterus.
There is no specific diet to lower unconjugated bilirubin, but eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy liver can help.
Yes, certain medications can affect the liver's ability to process bilirubin. It's important to let your healthcare provider know about any medications you are taking.
You should discuss the results with your healthcare provider who will guide you on the next steps which might include further testing or treatment.
The Bilirubin Unconjugated (Indirect) test is an essential diagnostic tool for assessing the amount of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood, which is useful in evaluating liver function and diagnosing conditions like hemolytic anemia and Gilbert's syndrome. It's especially crucial for monitoring the health of newborns who are at risk of jaundice and its complications. As with any medical condition, early detection and proper management are key to preventing potential complications. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.
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