Question
My child was born just seven days ago. On the fifth day, the bilirubin level reached four hundred. We’ve been under blue light therapy for two days. This morning, it was measured at 290. Do we need to continue with the blue light therapy? What is the child’s current bilirubin index?
Answer
Newborn jaundice refers to a condition in the neonatal period where an abnormal metabolism of bilirubin leads to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, resulting in yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae, which is one of the most common clinical issues in newborns. Based on the provided bilirubin index, a level of 290 is considered mild jaundice. Generally, physiological jaundice does not require treatment and will resolve spontaneously within a few weeks. If it is pathological jaundice, blue light therapy may be necessary. Typically, one or two sessions of light therapy can be administered, each lasting from 2 to 48 hours (usually not exceeding 4 days). Continuous or intermittent Irradiation can cease treatment until the bilirubin level drops below 7 mg/dL. For specific treatment plans and duration, it is recommended to consult with a professional doctor.