What does total serum bilirubin produce?

Total serum bilirubin measures the levels of bilirubin in the blood, which is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells. Elevated levels can indicate liver dysfunction, bile duct obstruction, or hemolytic anemia. Clinically, it helps diagnose conditions such as jaundice and liver disease. Total bilirubin is typically divided into direct (conjugated) and indirect (unconjugated) fractions to provide further insight into the underlying cause of elevation.