Question
Does the yellowish appearance of a newborn’s face indicate neonatal jaundice? How should it be cared for?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice is divided into two types: physiological jaundice, which is characterized by a light yellowish color confined to the face and neck or spreading to the trunk, with the conjunctiva also turning yellow. Newborns with physiological jaundice generally appear to be in good condition, without anemia, liver or spleen enlargement, and normal liver function. Pathological jaundice typically has the following features: 1) It appears early; 2) It is severe; 3) It progresses rapidly; 4) It lasts a long time, or recurs. In severe cases of jaundice, symptoms of severe bilirubin encephalopathy may occur, such as poor response, listlessness, loss of appetite, increased muscle tension, followed by irritability, loud screaming, difficulty breathing, opisthotonos, and increased muscle tension.