The bilirubin test is used to:
- Check liver function and watch for signs of
liver disease, such as hepatitis or
cirrhosis, or the effects of medicines that can damage
- Find out if something is blocking the bile ducts. This
may occur if
gallstones, tumors of the pancreas, or other
conditions are present.
- Diagnose conditions that cause increased
red blood cells, such as hemolytic anemia or
hemolytic disease of the newborn.
make decisions about whether newborn babies with
neonatal jaundice need treatment. These babies may
need treatment with special lights, called phototherapy. In rare cases, blood
transfusions may be needed.