Question
The newborn was only seven days old when the jaundice index was tested at 316, and the doctor recommended a magnetic resonance imaging scan to assess for brain damage. Is it necessary to undergo a magnetic resonance imaging scan in this situation? Can a jaundice index of 316 in newborns lead to brain damage?
Answer
Hello. If a newborn’s jaundice index reaches 316, it is already beyond the normal physiological jaundice range and may trigger hyperbilirubinemia encephalopathy. In this case, following the advice of local doctors to undergo a magnetic resonance imaging scan is appropriate. The scan is generally harmless to infants, so there is no need to worry excessively. At the same time, treatment for the jaundice should be carried out as soon as possible under the guidance of local doctors. These are the relevant suggestions.