Test for Bilirubin / Bile pigment in urine ( Fouchet's test for bilirubinuria )

Test for bilirubin / bile pigment in urine ( Fouchet's test )

Bilirubin is breakdown product of haemoglobin.
Normally no bilirubin passed in urine.

Apparatus

Test tube, 10% barium chloride, filter paper, dropper, fouchet's reagent, urine.

Principal

Oxidises bilirubin convert into green biliverdin with the help of ferric chloride.

Procedure

• Take 10ml of urine in a test tube.
• Add 3 -5 ml 10% barium chloride.
• Filter through filter paper.
• To precipitate on filter paper, add a few drops of fouchet's reagent. 

Fouchet's reagent = Ferric chloriode + Trichloroacetic acid

Result

Development of green colour indicates bilirubin.

Causes of bilirubinuria

1. Obstructive jaundice
2. Hepatocellular jaundice.