Question
When encountering hepatomegaly and splenomegaly in newborns, it is crucial to quickly identify the cause and differentiate between benign self-limiting diseases and malignant changes. Hepatosplenomegaly in the neonatal period is a common clinical symptom, with a wide range of diseases that can cause it, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Normally, the upper limit of a newborn’s liver is generally at the fourth intercostal space on the right midclavicular line, and the lower limit is usually below the right costal margin by 1-2cm. The lower limit of the liver under the xiphoid process is closer, about 2 centimeters. The spleen is soft, and it cannot be felt below the left midclavicular line at the costal margin. If a newborn’s liver and spleen are larger than the above range, they can be considered as hepatosplenomegaly.
Answer
Based on your description, your baby’s skin started to turn yellow after birth, and although the doctor said it was normal during the checkup, the condition hasn’t improved and has even worsened over the past 7 days. The doctor mentioned hepatosplenomegaly. The severity of newborn hepatosplenomegaly should be addressed promptly to determine if it is a benign self-limiting disease or a malignant change. Hepatosplenomegaly in the neonatal period is a common clinical symptom, but there are many diseases that can cause it, making diagnosis and treatment more difficult. Normally, a newborn’s liver upper limit is generally at the fourth intercostal space on the right midclavicular line, and the lower limit is usually below the right costal margin by 1-2cm. The spleen is softer, and it cannot be felt below the left midclavicular line at the costal margin. If a newborn’s liver and spleen sizes exceed the above range, further evaluation may be necessary.