Serum Bile Acid Total

Bile acids play a crucial role in breaking down and absorbing dietary fats. They also help eliminate cholesterol and certain waste products from the body. The Serum Bile Acid Total test evaluates liver function and bile acid metabolism. Abnormal levels of bile acids in the blood can indicate liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or impaired bile flow (cholestasis). 

The Serum Bile Acid Total may be recommended when you notice symptoms suggestive of unhealthy liver, such as dark urine, nausea, abdominal pain and swelling, clay-colored stool, jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin), anemia,  and flu-like symptoms like fever and chills. It may also be done to monitor individuals with known liver or gallbladder disorders or to evaluate the response to treatment.

In pregnant women, the Serum Bile Acid Total test may be used to diagnose intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). ICP is a serious liver disease that typically develops in late pregnancy due to the build-up of bile acids in the body, and this test can help in diagnosing this disease early on. Undiagnosed ICP can cause complications for the pregnant woman and the unborn child.

Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred for this test. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test. Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. These will help the doctor determine appropriate treatments through supplements, medications, dietary adjustments, or lifestyle modifications.