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You are here : AllRefer.com > Health > Tests & Exams > Bilirubin - Urine

Bilirubin - Urine

Provided by A.D.A.M.

Definition

Why is the Test Performed?

How is the Test Performed?

How to Prepare for the Test?

How will the Test Feel?

Normal Values

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Alternate Names : Conjugated Bilirubin-Urine, Direct Bilirubin-Urine


Definition

This is a urine test that measures the amount of bilirubin.

Bilirubin metabolism begins with the breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs) by phagocytic cells (cells that consume and digest other cells). Hemoglobin is broken down to heme and globin. Heme is converted to bilirubin, which is then carried by albumin in the blood to the liver.

In the liver, most of the bilirubin is conjugated with glucuronic acid before it is excreted in the bile. Conjugated bilirubin is called direct bilirubin (DB), and unconjugated bilirubin is called indirect bilirubin (IB). Total bilirubin = DB + IB. Conjugated bilirubin is excreted into the bile by the liver and stored in the gall bladder or transferred directly to the small intestines.

Bilirubin is further metabolized by bacteria in the intestines to urobilins, which contribute to the color of the feces. A small percentage of these compounds are reabsorbed and eventually appear in the urine, where they are referred to as urobilinogen.

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Male Urinary System
Male Urinary System

 
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Why is the Test Performed?

This test may be performed when liver or gallbladder problems are suspected.

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Definition
Why is the Test Performed?
How is the Test Performed?
How to Prepare for the Test?
How will the Test Feel?
Normal Values
What do Abnormal Results Mean?
Special Considerations
Risks
Pictures & Images

Topics that might be of interest to you

Diseases & Conditions

Biliary Obstruction
Biliary Stricture
Cholelithiasis
Cirrhosis
Hepatitis
Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Tests & Exams

Albumin - Serum
Bilirubin
Hemoglobin

Other Topics

Bile
Biliary System
Metabolism
Penis
Vitamin C

Review Date : 8/18/2003
Reviewed By : David Webner, M.D., Sports Medicine Fellow, Crozer-Keystone Family Practice Program, Springfield, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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Page Last Updated: 09 Jan, 2009