Neonatal jaundice

Neonatal jaundice is usually noted clinically when serum bilirubin is >5 mg/dL. Occurs in 60% to 70% of term neonates. Most cases are physiologic.

Jaundice in the first 24 hours of life is considered pathologic.

Treatment for severe hyperbilirubinemia includes phototherapy and/or exchange transfusion.

The major complication of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia is kernicterus.

Neonatal jaundice is the yellowing discoloration of the skin and sclera of a neonate, which is caused by increased levels of bilirubin in the blood. A neonate refers to an infant in the first 28 days of life.

This topic focuses on recognizing and managing early neonatal jaundice, which is most commonly caused by unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia. While prolonged jaundice with conjugated hyperbilirubinemia may present during this period, appropriate management depends on the pathologic cause and detailed commentary is beyond the scope of this material.