Unconjugated Versus Conjugated Bilirubin Clinical Chemistry Review 106
UNCONJUGATED BILIRUBIN CONJUGATED BILIRUBIN
Structure Bilirubin Bilirubin monoglucuronide, bilirubin
diglucuronide, & delta bilirubin
Bound to protein Yes (albumin) No (except delta bilirubin)
Type of compound Nonpolar Polar
Soluble in water? No Yes
Present in urine? No Yes
Reaction with diazotized sulfanilic acid Indirect (only reacts in presence of accelerator) Direct (reacts without accelerator)
Affinity for brain tissue High Low
