The Bilirubin Total Fluid Lab Test is a clinical laboratory test that detects the amount of bilirubin in the abdominal or peritoneal fluid. It is used as a screening test for bile leakage and can help differentiate between a transudate (without proteins) and exudate (with proteins) pleural effusion (liquid accumulation).
Bilirubin is an orange-yellow pigment, a waste product mainly produced by the breakdown of heme. Heme is a component of hemoglobin found primarily in red blood cells.
Bilirubin is normally eliminated from the body; however, significant amounts may be retained in some abnormal conditions. This test is measures the amount of bilirubin in the body.
- What are the risks associated with this test?
There are no significant risks associated with this test, except for mild redness, pain, and irritation at the injection site. However, if you experience any severe reactions, please contact your doctor immediately.
- When is this test done?
This test may be done when you have signs and symptoms indicating liver damage or disease, such as:
- Jaundice
- Dark stools
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Fatigue and general weakness
- What other tests may be done to determine liver disorders?
The other liver function tests (LFTs) that may be done include the following:
- CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel)
- Liver Panel Test
- Does an elevated bilirubin level mean that I have liver disease?
An elevated bilirubin level does not necessarily mean that you have liver disease; however, it highly indicates that an abnormality associated with the liver is present.
- Is liver disease curable?
Some liver diseases are treatable and curable. On the other hand, some infections are treatable and medicines can lower the severity of symptoms; however, they are not curable.
The normal total bilirubin level is usually 1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for adults and usually 1 mg/dL.
Higher levels indicate liver disorders, cirrhosis (liver scarring), hepatitis (liver infection), Hemolytic Anemia (low red blood cells). However, more tests may have to be performed to make an accurate diagnosis.
Some abnormal conditions reactions are mild, whilst others are serious and can have dire consequences. Getting tested is necessary for ruling out the causes of any abnormalities, which may be resolved within a few hours or, in some serious cases, last for years and require life-long treatment.
Getting tested is essential for the following reasons:
- To evaluate any liver disorders
- To determine anemic disorders
- Helps you and your doctor diagnose various allergies, infections, auto-immune disorders, cancers, metabolic disorders, anemia, etc.
- Regular check-up
- Diagnose conditions before they progress and prove to be fatal
- Plan treatment and evaluate the effectiveness of given therapy
