Bile Acids Test - Total, Serum

What Does the Bile Acids Test Measure?

The Bile Acids Test measures total bile acid concentration in the blood, including both primary and secondary bile acids.

• Liver Function: Determines how well the liver produces, recycles, and clears bile acids.
• Bile Flow Assessment: Detects obstruction or reduced flow in bile ducts (cholestasis).
• Metabolic Screening: Identifies disorders affecting bile acid synthesis or transport.
• Pregnancy Monitoring: Detects intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), a liver disorder that occurs in late pregnancy.
• Treatment Response: Monitors liver function recovery or response to therapy in liver disease patients.

Why is a Bile Acids Test Done?

Doctors recommend a Bile Acids Test to:

• Detect cholestasis or bile flow obstruction.
• Diagnose intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) when pregnant women experience itching, especially in the third trimester.
• Evaluate liver disorders such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or fatty liver disease.
• Identify gallbladder or bile duct diseases.
• Monitor the effects of hepatotoxic medications or liver-impacting treatments.
• Assess newborns or infants for inherited metabolic liver disorders.

Who Should Get a Bile Acids Test?

This test is advised if you have:

• Persistent itching (pruritus) during pregnancy.
• Symptoms of liver disease such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin), or dark urine.
• Known biliary or gallbladder disorders.
• Family history of liver disease or metabolic dysfunction.
• Unexplained elevations in liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP).

What are Bile Acids and Why Are They Important?

Bile acids are compounds made from cholesterol in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. They help digest fats, absorb fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), and maintain cholesterol balance.

In healthy individuals, bile acids travel from the liver to the intestine and back through a process called enterohepatic circulation. When liver function is impaired or bile flow is blocked, bile acids accumulate in the blood, causing toxic effects on cells and tissues.

Bile Acids Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare

How to Book the Bile Acids Test and Get Your Reports

1. Online Booking
   Book your Bile Acids Test through the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. Choose a convenient time slot and location.
2. Home Sample Collection
   Metropolis offers safe home collection services by trained phlebotomists for added convenience.
3. Laboratory Testing
   Samples are analysed using the Enzymatic method in NABL & CAP accredited labs for accurate measurement of bile acid levels.
4. Quick Report Delivery
   Reports are available within 6 hours, delivered via email, WhatsApp, or accessible on the Metropolis Healthcare portal.

How Long Does It Take to Get Bile Acids Test Results?

Reports are typically available within 6 hours of sample reaching our Lab.

Note: Reporting time may vary based on your location.

Where Can I See or Collect Bile Acids Test Reports?

You can access your report through:

1. Metropolis Healthcare website or mobile app
2. Email or WhatsApp delivery
3. Physical copies at your nearest Metropolis Lab

Is Home Sample Collection Available for Bile Acids Test?

Yes. Metropolis Healthcare provides doorstep sample collection across major cities. This service ensures convenience, hygiene, and comfort for patients, especially expecting mothers.

Interpreting Bile Acids Test Results

Normal and Abnormal Bile Acids Levels

Understanding Abnormal Results

Preparation for the Bile Acids Test

• Fasting: Avoid eating or drinking (except water) for 8 to 10 hours before the test.
• Medication Review: Inform your doctor about any liver-impacting medications, supplements, or hormonal treatments.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated to make blood collection easier.
• Avoid Alcohol: Do not consume alcohol 24 hours before the test.
• Pregnancy Notification: Pregnant women should inform the phlebotomist and clinician before testing.

What to Expect During the Bile Acids Test

• A small blood sample (about 2 ml) is drawn from a vein in your arm.
• The process takes only a few minutes and involves minimal discomfort.
• After sample collection, you can resume your normal activities immediately.

Associated Tests

Your doctor may recommend additional tests alongside the Bile Acids Test to assess complete liver function, such as:

• Liver Function Test (LFT)
• Bilirubin (Total and Direct)
• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)
• Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)
• Hepatitis Panel
• Ultrasound of Liver and Gallbladder

Bile Acids Test Price in Different Cities

The cost of a Bile Acids Test may vary depending on your location. Here's a table showing the approximate price range for the Bile Acids Test at Metropolis Healthcare in major Indian cities:

The Bile Acids Test cost may vary depending on the city and the specific tests included in the panel. However, Metropolis Healthcare offers competitive Bile Acids Test prices across major cities in India.

References

1. Geenes V, Williamson C. (2009). Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy. World Journal of Gastroenterology, 15(17), 2049–2066. PMID: 19418576
2. Trauner M, et al. (2017). Pathogenesis and Management of Cholestasis. New England Journal of Medicine, 377(13), 1258–1271. PMID: 28953447
3. Cui D, et al. (2018). Serum Bile Acids in the Diagnosis of Liver Diseases. Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, 56(6), 857–866. PMID: 29565238
4. Kit Insert – Metropolis Healthcare Bile Acids Assay.