Test Overview
Piccolo- spectrophotometry
Performed at authorized locations by point of care operators. Bilirubin is a waste product derived from the breakdown of hemoglobin. Increased red cell destruction or defective bilirubin conjugation by the liver , will increase the amount of bilirubin in the body. If the bilirubin concentration is high enough, pigment will accumulate in the tissues producing jaundice. Jaundice may be due to diseases of blood, liver, bile ducts, or pancreas. In newborns kernicterus or hemolytic disease of the newborn could be a potential cause.
The POC total bilirubin test is performed to detect high levels of bilirubin, particularly in neonates. If warranted, based on the age of the infant and POC total bilirubin level, an indirect and direct bilirubin will be automatically reflexed.
Reference ranges are available in the POC Total Bilirubin on Piccolo Xpress test procedure located on the POC website: https://www.pathology.med.umich.edu/point-of-care
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
•Specimen must be collected in a lithium heparin tube/syringe.
•Specimens must be free of clots and fibrin.
•Samples that are grossly hemolyzed and/or lipemic should be tested via an alternative method.
Test Details
12 minutes
Specimen Requirements
Collect in lithium heparin syringe/tube.
Whole blood sample must be run within 60 minutes of collection. Total bilirubin might be adversely affected by photodegradation if exposed to light for an extended period.
•Clotted specimens.
• Specimens grossly hemolyzed and/or lipemic.
Additional Information
For more test specific information, please refer to the test procedure found on the Michigan Medicine POC website: https://www.pathology.med.umich.edu/point-of-care. By ordering this test, the clinician acknowledges that additional reflex testing will be performed and billed a separate additional charge if indicated.