Bilirubin (total)
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. The liver processes it and excretes it in bile. An excess turns the skin and the whites of the eyes yellow (jaundice).
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 21 µmol/L | Bilirubin within range. |
| Worth improving | 21 – 34 µmol/L | Slightly elevated — often benign (Gilbert). |
| Talk to a doctor | 34 µmol/L and above | Elevated — seek advice. |
This marker also has 2 age- or sex-specific range sets in the app — the table shows the general one.
Why it matters
EASL: elevated with liver/bile duct issues or hemolysis (often benign Gilbert's syndrome).
If it’s low
Low bilirubin has no clinical significance.
If it’s high
Elevated bilirubin (jaundice) can have three main sources: accelerated breakdown of blood cells, liver damage or bile duct obstruction. It is often harmless (Gilbert's syndrome).
What to do
A mild isolated rise (with normal other liver tests) is often Gilbert's syndrome — harmless, requiring no action. Jaundice with other abnormalities belongs to a doctor.
Read together with
Direct bilirubin · ALT · GGT · Haptoglobin
Part of the guide: Liver →
Articles about this marker
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP): what high or low levels meanMarker explained
- Blood chemistry tests: normal values for ALT, AST, GGT, CRP, CK, creatinine and glucoseReading your report
- High bilirubin: what it means and how to spot Gilbert's syndromeMarker explained
- Liver tests (ALT, AST, GGT): what they mean and how to help your liverMarker explained
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
Your number, not the average
Upload your report: we rate your exact value for your age and sex, show the source, and tell you what to do next.