Total Bile Pigments Bile Salts Automated Blood

This test is used to evaluate Bile pigments and bile salts present in the blood sample of an individual. This test is recommended by the doctor to diagnose and evaluate the diseases associated with the liver and kidneys.

What is bile?

It is a type of digestive enzyme produced by the liver, bile plays a role in the emulsification of fats and cholesterol from food to facilitate better fat absorption. Generally, bile salts are not found in the urine. Upon conditions like liver damage or biliary obstruction can lead to an increase in the blood concentration of bile acids in blood which are excreted through urine. Cholestasis, an increased concentration of bile salts and bile acids in the blood and urine can cause itching of the skin (Pruritus), blood levels of bile are also found to be increased in other diseases like liver cirrhosis, liver damage, biliary obstruction, primary biliary cirrhosis, cholestatic syndrome, jaundice etc.

Why is this test recommended?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience signs or symptoms like jaundice, fever, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, the yellowish colouration of eyes and skin, weakness, etc. This test is recommended by the doctor if an individual is suffering from diseases or conditions like liver diseases, biliary cirrhosis, sclerosing cholangitis, Intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy, hereditary cholestatic syndrome, etc.

Generally, bile acids can be found in the blood. Increased levels of bilirubin in the blood may indicate the presence of certain pathological conditions like jaundice or because of liver damage, etc. Based on the test results, your doctor may advise appropriate medical treatments, lifestyle modifications, or further diagnostic tests.