Question
A female infant was born on April 23, with her mother having high bile acid levels and undergoing a cesarean section at 37 weeks. The infant developed jaundice symptoms on the fourth day after birth and received two days of blue light therapy, with a bilirubin level of 12mg/dl upon discharge. Fourteen days later, a follow-up revealed an increase in bilirubin levels to 18.5mg/dl. Is this situation severe? Does it belong to physiological or pathological jaundice?
Answer
Hello, based on the description, the infant’s jaundice should be considered pathological jaundice. Since the infant may be premature rather than full-term, a slower decline in bilirubin levels is a common occurrence. The treatment effect of the infant seems positive, with blue light therapy being an appropriate choice. It is recommended to discontinue breastfeeding for three days after blue light therapy and switch to formula milk, while continuing with the blue light therapy. In addition, the infant’s…