Direct Bilirubin
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mg/dL
Direct (conjugated) bilirubin measures the portion of bilirubin that has been processed by the liver and made water-soluble. Within a Liver Function Test (LFT) panel, it is a critical marker for distinguishing between pre-hepatic, intra-hepatic, and post-hepatic jaundice. Elevated levels specifically point toward cholestasis (bile flow obstruction) or direct hepatocellular damage where the liver's ability to conjugate is intact, but its ability to excrete into the bile duct is impaired.
Check Your Result
Check Your Result
Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
Elevated direct bilirubin can be confounded by recent high-fat meals, prolonged fasting, or the use of certain medications like Rifampin or Probenecid. Furthermore, 'delta bilirubin' (bilirubin covalently bound to albumin) can stay elevated for weeks after a primary liver issue has resolved, potentially leading to a misinterpretation of active disease.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Direct Bilirubin:
Official Sources
- Bilirubin test - Mayo ClinicMayo Clinic
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: Direct Bilirubin Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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