Bile pigments (bilirubin and its derivatives) are normally excreted via bile into the intestine.

In liver disease or bile duct obstruction, conjugated bilirubin may spill into the bloodstream and be excreted in urine.

Clinical uses include:

Screening for obstructive jaundice and cholestasis.

Supporting diagnosis of hepatitis, cirrhosis, and other hepatocellular diseases.

Detecting early liver dysfunction in patients with jaundice.

Often performed alongside Urine Bile Salt, Liver Function Tests (LFTs), and imaging studies for comprehensive evaluation.

Analyte: Bile pigments (mainly conjugated bilirubin) in urine (qualitative test).

Normal Result: Negative (no bile pigments detected).

Abnormal Findings:

Positive bile pigments: Suggests hepatocellular disease or biliary obstruction.

Absent bile pigments in obstructive jaundice: May indicate complete obstruction (no bilirubin reaches urine).

Clinical Use:

Provides a simple screening marker for hepatobiliary disorders.

Helps guide diagnosis and monitoring of liver and biliary tract conditions.

Supports gastroenterology and hepatology evaluations.