Non-invasive Bilirubin test
A bilirubin test measures the amount of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is produced by the breakdown of hemoglobin, the oxygen-binding protein in red blood cells. Bilirubin is processed in the liver.  If liver cells are damaged, bilirubin can escape into the bloodstream.   The neonatal bilirubin test is typically performed by inserting a needle or a lancet  2mm into the skin of the heel. The clinician is typically firm with the heel-prick as to avoid squeezing and repeated stabs of the lancet.  Newer technologies exist that can measure bilirubin non-invasively, using light and sensors.