Question
My baby has been born for a week, and I recently noticed yellow discoloration in their eyes and face, which may be symptoms of jaundice. What is the safe range for newborn jaundice levels?
Answer
Newborn jaundice, also known as neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, refers to a clinical condition in the neonatal period where an abnormal metabolism of bilirubin leads to an elevated concentration of bilirubin in the blood, causing yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. This condition can be classified into two types: physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice usually does not require special treatment, while pathological jaundice requires blue light therapy. Treatment can be considered discontinued if the newborn’s bilirubin level drops below 7 mg/dL.