Bile Acids, Fractionated and Total, Pregnancy Test
This test measures total serum bile acids and individual bile acid components in a pregnant person, using a blood sample. Quest describes it as used alongside other findings in evaluating intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
About this test
Bile acids are produced by the liver and normally stay within a certain range in the blood. Quest describes this test as measuring levels of total serum bile acids and specific components, such as cholic acid, which can rise significantly in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
Because the panel reports the fractionated components alongside the total, a clinician can see not just that bile acids are elevated but which components are contributing. Quest lists an overnight fast before the blood draw, when possible, as preferred preparation for this test, and the panel is read together with a person's pregnancy history and other clinical findings rather than as a stand-alone result.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports total bile acids together with three individual components: chenodeoxycholic acid, cholic acid and deoxycholic acid. Reporting the fractions alongside the total is what distinguishes this version of the test from a simple total bile acids measurement, and it is why Quest lists it under names that include the individual acid names as well as the panel name.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this bile acids test measure?
It measures total serum bile acids along with three individual components, chenodeoxycholic acid, cholic acid and deoxycholic acid, in a pregnant person's blood sample, using chromatography/mass spectrometry.
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a 1 mL serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
Quest lists an overnight fast before the blood draw, when possible, and preparation details appear with the test details.
Why is this test associated with pregnancy?
Quest describes it as used alongside other findings in evaluating intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, a condition in which bile acid levels can rise. A clinician interprets the result together with a person's history and other findings, not on its own.