Newborn Jaundice
Description
An elevated bilirubin in the blood commonly seen in newborns born before the 38th week of pregnancy. The liver of immature babies generally cannot metabolize the bilirubin causing the elevated levels. Bilirubin is a breakdown product of red blood cells. Most babies do not need treatment. If the level is very high brain damage can occur.
Symptoms
Yellow skin, yellow discoloration of the white part of the eyes (sclera).
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. Blood tests to measure the bilirubin level and a complete blood count (CBC) are generally done. Other tests to detect an abnormal destruction of blood cells may be performed. A skin test using a special light (transcutaneous bilirubinometer) can also be used to measure the bilirubin level.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Comb's Test
- reticulocyte count
Treatment
Most babies do not need specific treatment but their bilirubin levels will be measured to ensure they are decreasing. The most common treatment is phototherapy with the use of special lights to help the baby remove the bilirubin through the urine. If there is a blood type difference between mother and baby and the bilirubin level is high intravenous immunoglobulin may be necessary. Severe cases that do respond to other treatments may require an exchange blood transfusion.
Related Videos
Share Your Experience
Do you have experience with this disease? Do you or someone
you know suffer from Newborn jaundice?
Please share you experience with other members of the iTriage community.