Direct bilirubin
Direct (conjugated) bilirubin is the part of bilirubin that the liver has already processed and is ready for excretion in bile. Its fraction helps distinguish the cause of elevated bilirubin.
| Rating | Range | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Good | below 5 µmol/L | Within range. |
| Worth improving | 5 – 8 µmol/L | Slightly elevated. |
| Talk to a doctor | 8 µmol/L and above | Elevated — liver/bile ducts; seek advice. |
Why it matters
EASL: an elevated level indicates impaired bile flow or liver injury.
If it’s low
Low direct bilirubin is normal.
If it’s high
High direct bilirubin indicates that processed bilirubin does not drain properly — liver damage or bile duct obstruction.
What to do
Direct bilirubin is not a lifestyle marker. A predominantly direct rise (with jaundice) belongs to a doctor — imaging/liver workup is needed.
Read together with
Bilirubin (total) · ALT · GGT · Alkaline phosphatase (ALP)
Part of the guide: Liver →
Articles about this marker
- High bilirubin: what it means and how to spot Gilbert's syndromeMarker explained
This content is for information only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your results.
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