The Bili total blood test is a measurement of a person’s bilirubin levels. In adults and children that have reached adolescent age, this test is used to either diagnose or monitor certain liver diseases or to detect the presence of gallstones. People who have been diagnosed with a sickle cell disorder or have red blood cell destruction for some reason will also benefit from having this blood test routinely ordered.
The Bili total blood test is also used with newborns to determine the presence of jaundice and the cause behind it. When bilirubins remain unconjugated in in newborns, the end result can be brain cell damage which leads to learning disabilities, intelligence impairment, eye movement disorders, and hearing loss. This test will quickly identify and then help doctors treat this condition so that newborns can grow up into happy and healthy adults.
When Is the Bili Total Blood Test Ordered?
When a medical provider observes or hears during the interview stage of an appointment that certain signs and symptoms of abnormal liver functioning are present, then the Bili total blood rest may be ordered. Yellowish tinting to the skin, an indication of jaundice, is the most common symptom that triggers this test. Doctors may also ordered it for the following reasons.
- There is a history of excessive alcohol consumption.
- Drug toxicity may be present in some form, including illicit drug use.
- There has been a suspected exposure to the hepatitis series of viruses.
People may report to the doctor a number of unique physical symptoms that are also indicative of liver damage. A feeling of general fatigue often accompanies liver disease that may have reached chronic stages. Unusual abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen, dark urine, and routine nausea or vomiting may also trigger the Bili total blood test.
Newborns have this test automatically ordered. It is considered part of the medical care standard in most developed nations.
What Do the Bili Total Blood Test Results Mean?
There are two types of bilirubins that are being tested: unconjugated and conjugated.
If unconjugated bilirubin levels are high:
This is an indication that cirrhosis may be present. Certain metabolic conditions that attach sugars to bilirubins may also be present. High counts are also present when certain types of anemia are present.
If conjugated bilirubin levels are high:
This is an indication that hepatitis has affected the liver in some way. It may be from an initial infection or a relapse of inflammation. Liver disease caused by alcohol abuse and certain drug reactions may also cause these levels to be high.
Sometimes one type of bilirubin will have higher results than the other in the Bili total blood test. If conjugated bilirubins are higher than unconjugated bilirubins, then this tells a medical provider that there may be gallstones blocking a bile duct, a tumor present, or an injury that has happened to the bile ducts and scarring has occurred.
Certain Inherited Disorders May Cause Permanently High Bilirubin Counts.
These are passed along genetically and are often discovered early on in childhood. If there is no other explanation for high count levels and these inherited disorders have never been diagnosed, genetic testing may be requested.
Low levels of both bilirubin types is generally not a medical concern. Most medical providers will not monitor someone who has a low result.
Normal results are typically 0.1-1 mg/dL for a total bilirubin count. Certain foods, lifestyle habits, and medications will affect these counts, so be sure to speak with a medical provider before the test occurs to discuss any changes which may be required to get an accurate test.
When To Speak With a Doctor
If you have the signs and symptoms of liver damage, then you should speak with your medical provider immediately even if the liver ends up being healthy. A blockage in the bile ducts can quickly lead to other health issues that could become a medical emergency. If you need monitoring of a treatment plan because of a diagnosed liver issue, then the Bili total blood test will often be part of that plan.
Other tests are often ordered with this specific blood test. That may include protein tests, LFTs that measure liver functions, and a complete blood count.
Treating high bilirubin counts can be as simple as sitting in some sunshine.
The treatment goal, especially in newborns, is to encourage bilirubin destruction. Medications may be prescribed to prevent future health concerns as well. If you have concerns about your Bili total blood test, then use this guide to ask questions of your medical provider so that you can experience the best level of health possible.