Neonatal jaundice – Icterus neonatorum (2021) Unknown Author

Description

Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common conditions occurring in newborn infants, characterized by elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood (total serum bilirubin concentration > 5 mg/dL). The most common cause is a physiological rise in unconjugated bilirubin resulting from hemolysis of fetal hemoglobin and an immature hepatic metabolism. Pathologic neonatal jaundice can be conjugated or unconjugated, indicating an underlying disease such as hemolytic anemias or G6PD deficiency. Severe hyperbilirubinemia risks permanent neurological damage (kernicterus). Treatment modalities include phototherapy, intravenous immune globulin (IVIG), and exchange transfusion.