Neonatal Bilirubin, Serum
Use
This test is useful for assessing liver function and evaluating a wide range of diseases affecting the production, uptake, storage, metabolism, or excretion of bilirubin. It is specifically useful for monitoring the efficacy of neonatal phototherapy. Bilirubin is produced from the breakdown of heme in hemoglobin and other heme-containing proteins, and is conjugated in the liver for excretion in bile. Disruptions in any of these processes due to inherited or acquired diseases can lead to bilirubinemia.
Special Instructions
Ship specimen in an amber vial to protect from light. Patient's age and sex are required for testing.
Limitations
The test requires specimens to be protected from light to prevent degradation. Gross hemolysis can interfere with test results and may lead to specimen rejection. Substances that compete with bilirubin for albumin binding, such as penicillin and some NSAIDs, may lower bilirubin levels. Proper handling and rapid processing of specimens are critical to ensure accurate results.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Photometric)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 34543-9
- 1968-7
- 1975-2
Result Turnaround Time
1-2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
0.5 mL
Minimum Volume
0.25 mL
Container
Amber vial
Collection Instructions
Serum gel microtainers should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Red-top microtainers should be centrifuged, and the serum aliquoted into an amber vial within 2 hours of collection.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 6 hours |
| Refrigerated | 24 hours |
| Frozen | 30 days |