What is a bilirubin urine test? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a bilirubin urine test?
This test is used to check the amount of bilirubin in the urine.
Also Read: Urine culture, test
What is bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a by-product of haemoglobin. It is a yellowish substance that makes the body during the normal process of breaking down red blood cells. It is mainly found in the liver. The liver uses bile to make bilirubin and it helps in digestion.
What does bilirubin in urine mean?
Usually, there is no evidence of bilirubin in urine. Urine bilirubin is absent normally. If bilirubin is present in the urine, it may be an early indication of a liver problem. This condition is called bilirubinuria.
Why is it done?
A bilirubin in urine is often part of a urinalysis. This test measures the chemicals, different cells, and other substances in the urine. It is used to diagnose liver problems and other medical conditions.
Why do I need a bilirubin in urine test?
A bilirubin in a urine test is part of a regular health checkup. This test may also be done if you have symptoms of a liver condition, gallbladder disease, or a problem with the bile ducts. These symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Lack of appetite
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Jaundice
- Pain in abdomen
- Swelling in abdomen
- Swelling in ankles and legs
- Dark coloured urine
- Light-coloured stool
- Frequent itching
A bilirubin in urine is an early sign of a liver problem. It may even show up before you have symptoms. The Healthcare may order bilirubin in a urine test if you have a high risk for liver damage because of the following:
- Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- A family history of liver disease
- Hepatitis
What is the cause of the high bilirubin in urine?
Bilirubinuria usually indicates an underlying cause i.e. conjugated hyperbilirubinemia (excessive accumulation of conjugated bilirubin in the blood). Some of the reasons may include:
- Viral hepatitis
- Alcoholic hepatitis
- Drug-induced hepatitis
- Autoimmune hepatitis
- Wilson disease
- Liver cirrhosis
- Biliary stricture
- Gallstones
- Biliary atresia
- Intrahepatic or extrahepatic malignancy
- Dubin-johnson syndrome or Roton syndrome
What does the result mean?
If bilirubin is present in the urine it may be a sign of:
- Liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis.
- Blockage in the bile ducts.
