Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a condition that occurs in newborns, typically within the first week of life, characterized by an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow substance that the body creates when it replaces old red blood cells. The liver helps to break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Causes

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia can be caused by several factors, including prematurity, blood group incompatibility between the mother and baby, and certain genetic conditions. In many cases, the baby's liver is not mature enough to efficiently process the bilirubin.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is jaundice, which causes the baby's skin and the whites of the eyes to turn yellow. Other symptoms may include poor feeding, lethargy, and changes in muscle tone.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is typically made through a blood test to measure the level of bilirubin in the baby's blood. In some cases, a device called a transcutaneous bilirubinometer may be used to measure bilirubin levels through the skin.

Treatment

Treatment for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Treatment options may include phototherapy, which involves exposing the baby's skin to special lights that help break down bilirubin, and in severe cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.

Prognosis

With early detection and treatment, most babies with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia recover completely and have no long-term effects. However, if left untreated, severe neonatal hyperbilirubinemia can lead to serious complications, including kernicterus, a type of brain damage.

See also

• Jaundice
• Bilirubin
• Phototherapy
• Blood transfusion

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia Resources
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