Bile Acids

Serum 0.5 ml (for omnivores and carnivores, fasting is required 12 hours prior to blood collection);
Reptiles: heparin plasma or serum 0.2 ml

Photometry

Reporting of results on the day the sample is received (Mon–Sat)

• Serum bile acid concentration correlates with liver function.
• Elevation of bile acids can also indicate the existence of a portosystemic shunt, except in horses.
• Single determinations may be within the reference range despite a disease being present; the performance of a bile acid stimulation test is therefore preferable – except in horses.