Question
The baby was born 6 days ago with a bilirubin level of 22 and a total bilirubin in the blood of 338. The local doctor advised transferring to a provincial hospital and possibly needing a blood transfusion. Does this indicate a serious condition?
Answer
The measured values have significantly increased. Due to the incomplete barrier function of the newborn’s brain, bilirubin can enter the brain and cause brain damage. Active treatment is necessary. Conservative treatment is still ongoing, and a possible blood exchange may occur. However, as the age increases, it becomes safer to ask: This is a normal delivery, a full-term infant! According to the daily blue bilirubin value of 18, but no total bilirubin was measured. There are two blood clots on the baby’s head, which could be the cause of jaundice. Today, two tubes of blood were drawn from the hematoma. Will the hematoma on his head affect the jaundice? Jaundice is caused by the absorption of substances produced from the breakdown of red blood cells in the hematoma.