Compare this test’s laboratory options
Bile Acids
Quest Diagnostics1 test optionFrom $44.04
Bile Acids
Quest DiagnosticsCatalog information reviewed: August 24, 2026 by the Sunridge Medical clinical team.
What this laboratory test evaluates
DetailsBile Acids, Total, Enzymatic – Total bile acids are metabolized in the liver and, hence, serve as a marker for normal liver function. Serum total bile acids are increased in patients with acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver sclerosis and liver cancer.
Used to screen pregnant women for obstetric cholestasis. Symptoms of cholestasis included persistent itching in the third trimester of pregnancy and possible risks of unborn baby including stillbirth, premature labor and bleeding. The frequency of obstetric cholestasis varies and is 1 in 100 in pregnant European women vs. 1 in 10 in South American women. Total bile acids levels are the most sensitive indicator for monitoring the effectiveness of interferon treatment of chronic hepatitis C patients.
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL serum
Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.
Additional test information
Bile Acids, Total, Enzymatic – Total bile acids are metabolized in the liver and, hence, serve as a marker for normal liver function. Serum total bile acids are increased in patients with acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver sclerosis and liver cancer.
Collection and processing
- Sample type: Serum
- Fasting: Yes
- Estimated laboratory processing: Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected
How Sunridge uses laboratory information
Sunridge considers the medical question, symptoms, history, medications, prior results, and whether the finding could change care before recommending testing. A laboratory result is not interpreted in isolation and does not establish a diagnosis by itself.
Before requesting this test
Availability, collection requirements, eligibility, and processing estimates can change. Sunridge reviews each request and, when appropriate, creates the order through Fullscript. Follow the current instructions supplied with the approved order.
Common questions about this laboratory test
- What sample does this test require?
- The listed sample type is Serum. Confirm current collection instructions in the approved order.
- Does this test require fasting?
- The current catalog record lists fasting as: Yes. Follow the instructions supplied with the approved order.
- How long does laboratory processing usually take?
- Results should be available in 2 – 5 business days after the sample is collected. Timing can change after collection or if a laboratory requires additional review.
About this test
DetailsBile Acids, Total, Enzymatic - Total bile acids are metabolized in the liver and, hence, serve as a marker for normal liver function. Serum total bile acids are increased in patients with acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver sclerosis and liver cancer.
Used to screen pregnant women for obstetric cholestasis. Symptoms of cholestasis included persistent itching in the third trimester of pregnancy and possible risks of unborn baby including stillbirth, premature labor and bleeding. The frequency of obstetric cholestasis varies and is 1 in 100 in pregnant European women vs. 1 in 10 in South American women. Total bile acids levels are the most sensitive indicator for monitoring the effectiveness of interferon treatment of chronic hepatitis C patients.
What type of sample is required for this test?1 mL serum
Test ResourcesFor more information, please consult your healthcare provider.
Additional details
Bile Acids, Total, Enzymatic - Total bile acids are metabolized in the liver and, hence, serve as a marker for normal liver function. Serum total bile acids are increased in patients with acute hepatitis, chronic hepatitis, liver sclerosis and liver cancer.
Highlighted health areas
- Liver/Gallbladder
Biomarkers and report focus
The exact analytes and report format can change. Confirm the current contents in the Fullscript order before payment.
- Total Bile Acids, Serum