Abnormal Urine Bilirubin Levels: What You Need to Know

Abnormal bilirubin in urine?

Hello, Dr.
Lin.
My health check report shows abnormal bilirubin levels.
Liver function tests: ALK-P: 45, S.G.O.T.
(AST): 14, S.G.P.T.
(ALT): 11, HBsAg (EIA): (-), Anti-HBs (EIA): (+), HCV-Antibody: (-), Chest X-ray: no abnormalities.
I would like to know if being on my menstrual period during the test could affect the bilirubin results.
My overall health is good; should I pursue further liver and gallbladder function tests? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

amanda, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2007/02/26

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

1.
The menstrual period should not affect the urine bilirubin test.

2.
The presence of bilirubin in the urine may indicate elevated conjugated bilirubin levels in the blood, which can have various causes that require differential diagnosis, including medications and liver-biliary diseases.
Therefore, it is recommended to conduct further liver and biliary function tests.

Reply Date: 2007/02/26

More Info

Understanding abnormal urine bilirubin levels is crucial for assessing liver function and overall health. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. It is processed by the liver, where it is conjugated (made water-soluble) and then excreted in bile. When bilirubin levels are elevated in urine, it can indicate a problem with liver function, bile duct obstruction, or hemolysis (increased breakdown of red blood cells).

In your case, the urine bilirubin level is reported as abnormal, while other liver function tests such as alkaline phosphatase (ALK-P), AST (SGOT), and ALT (SGPT) are within normal ranges. The negative HBsAg and HCV antibody tests suggest that you do not have active hepatitis B or C infections, which is a positive sign. The presence of anti-HBs indicates that you have immunity to hepatitis B, likely from vaccination.

Regarding your question about whether menstruation can affect urine bilirubin levels, it is generally not considered a significant factor. Menstrual cycles can influence various physiological parameters, but they typically do not have a direct impact on bilirubin levels in urine. However, if you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle affecting other lab results, it is always a good idea to discuss this with your healthcare provider.

Given that your liver function tests are normal, it may not be immediately necessary to pursue further liver and gallbladder function tests. However, the abnormal urine bilirubin level warrants further investigation. It is essential to consider the context of your overall health, any symptoms you may be experiencing, and your medical history. If you have any symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, light-colored stools, abdominal pain, or unexplained fatigue, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Possible next steps could include:
1. Repeat Urinalysis: A repeat urinalysis can help confirm the abnormal bilirubin level and check for other abnormalities, such as the presence of urobilinogen, which can provide additional information about liver function.

2. Imaging Studies: If there is a concern for bile duct obstruction or other structural issues, imaging studies such as an abdominal ultrasound may be warranted.

3. Additional Blood Tests: Tests for other liver enzymes, bilirubin levels (total and direct), and possibly tests for autoimmune liver diseases or metabolic conditions may be considered.

4. Monitoring: If you are asymptomatic and your liver function tests remain normal, your healthcare provider may recommend monitoring your bilirubin levels over time to see if they normalize or if further action is needed.

In conclusion, while your current liver function tests are reassuring, the abnormal urine bilirubin level should not be ignored. It is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider about your results, any symptoms you may have, and the best course of action moving forward. Regular monitoring and appropriate follow-up can help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly.

Similar Q&A

Understanding the Connection Between Uribilinogen and Total Bilirubin Levels

Is there a connection between abnormal levels of urinary urobilinogen and total bilirubin in a health check? Thank you.

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello, when there is an abnormal increase in bilirubin levels in the blood, some of it may be excreted in the urine. It is advisable to consult a hepatobiliary specialist for further examination. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian

Understanding Elevated Total Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Next Steps

Hello, my employee's health check has shown elevated total bilirubin levels for three consecutive years, ranging from 1.51 to 2.08 mg/dL, with direct bilirubin levels between 0.38 and 0.59 mg/dL. All other blood and urine tests are normal. What could be the possible abnormal...

Dr. Lin Jianliang reply Internal Medicine
Based on the situation you described, you may first consult a gastroenterologist specializing in hepatobiliary medicine. Thank you for your message.

Understanding Elevated Bilirubin Levels: Causes and Implications

I have been taking medication for lowering blood sugar for a long time. My fasting blood sugar is 121 mg/dL, and my HbA1c is 6.5%. My average blood pressure is 130/78 mmHg. Aside from occasional joint pain, I do not have any other symptoms. I have blood tests every three months, ...

Dr. Lin Minghui reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Total bilirubin and direct bilirubin levels are elevated, indicating liver function abnormalities. It is necessary to check for hepatitis or gallbladder and biliary tract diseases. Causes of hepatitis include viral infections, alcohol consumption, medications, and fatty liver dis...

Understanding Your Abnormal Health Check Results: A Guide

Dr. Huang: Here are the abnormal items from my health check-up results: Urine test: Urine Bilirubin - Normal value: Negative, Result: Positive. Urine sediment: Epithelial cells - Normal value: 0-5, Result: 5-10. Complete blood count: %NEUT (Neutrophil percentage) - Normal v...

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine
1) Urobilinogen, also known as bilirubinuria, can appear in the urine in cases of liver disease or biliary tract disorders (such as biliary obstruction caused by gallstones or tumors), resulting in a positive test result. 2) An elevated number of epithelial cells in the urine typ...