Question
What are the treatment methods for neonatal jaundice? When an infant is just over one month old, yellowish symptoms appear on their face, neck, and eyes. Although the symptoms have lessened, the body still appears yellow. How should the best treatment be administered?
Answer
- Blood Transfusion: When the indirect bilirubin level in the serum exceeds 20mg/dl (342μmol/L), a blood transfusion may be necessary. Before this, donors must undergo a G6PD deficiency screening test to ensure that the blood supply does not lack G6PD, avoiding deterioration of the condition or worsening jaundice after transfusion. It is advisable to avoid using blood from relatives. If the degree of jaundice is not severe, a blood transfusion is not required.
- Phototherapy: Placing the infant under light with a wavelength of 440nm can reduce the level of bilirubin in the serum and prevent the occurrence of kernicterus. If kernicterus has already occurred, phototherapy can accelerate recovery. During phototherapy, bilirubin in the…