Bilirubin is a red-orange compound resulting from heme breakdown in vertebrates, significant for its role in digestion and its effects on health. It exists in two forms: unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct), with increased levels indicating health issues like jaundice and liver dysfunction. Bilirubin testing is essential for diagnosing various conditions, particularly in infants and adults, while also demonstrating antioxidant properties that may influence diseases such as cancer.