Question

What is the normal range of jaundice in newborns? The baby’s bilirubin level was measured at 13.9 on the second day of birth, and after two days of blue light therapy, the total bilirubin level was 252.2, with an indirect bilirubin level of 238.1. Is such treatment effective?

Answer

The normal range of jaundice in newborns varies depending on the age of the baby at birth. Generally, the bilirubin level should be below 10 mg/dL within the first 24 hours after birth. In your case, with the baby being 29 days old, the total bilirubin level was 252.2, and the indirect bilirubin level was 238.1, indicating pathological jaundice.

  1. Without information on the bilirubin level before phototherapy, it is not possible to directly determine the effectiveness of the treatment.
  2. Based on the current bilirubin levels, continued treatment is necessary. Additionally, further checks should be conducted to determine the cause of the jaundice and to treat it accordingly.