What Bilirubin tells you
Liver enzyme and protein markers that reflect aspects of liver activity. They are interpreted together, and in context, by a clinician.
Which Honed panels include Bilirubin
Bilirubin is measured in the Essential Panel. Every sample is collected at a pathology collection centre and processed at a NATA-accredited laboratory against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure online report.
Why Bilirubin matters
Bilirubin is a breakdown product of hemoglobin from old red blood cells, processed by the liver and excreted through bile. Total bilirubin consists of unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct) bilirubin. Bilirubin is used clinically as a marker of liver function and hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells). In athletes, elevated bilirubin is rare but can occur with extreme endurance exercise or underlying hemolytic conditions.
The range explained
Low levels
Low bilirubin is not clinically significant.
Normal range
Reference range: 3–20 µmol/L. This represents normal liver function and red blood cell turnover.
High levels
Elevated bilirubin (above 20 µmol/L) can indicate liver dysfunction, hemolysis, or elevated red blood cell breakdown. In athletes, mild elevation may occur after extreme endurance efforts.
What affects Bilirubin
- Training: Extreme endurance exercise can transiently elevate bilirubin through increased hemolysis. This normalizes with recovery.
- Nutrition: Adequate nutrition supports liver function.
- Sleep: Sleep supports liver function.
- Stress: Chronic stress can affect liver function and bilirubin levels.
When to retest
Every 12 months for general health.
Why athletes care
Endurance athletes may see mild bilirubin elevation after extreme efforts; sustained elevation warrants investigation.
Related liver markers
FAQ
What does the Bilirubin blood test measure?
A breakdown product of red blood cells that is processed by the liver. Levels are interpreted in context by a clinician.
Which Honed Health panels include Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is included in the Essential panel.
What unit is Bilirubin measured in?
Bilirubin is reported in µmol/L, measured at NATA-accredited laboratories against RCPA reference ranges, with personalised plain-English commentary in your secure report.