Question
If a newborn has jaundice and their bilirubin level reaches 14.5, is it considered high?
Answer
Newborn jaundice is a common clinical problem in newborns, primarily characterized by abnormal bilirubin metabolism, leading to yellow discoloration of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera, and an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood. This condition can be categorized into physiological and pathological types. Physiological jaundice is a temporary jaundice caused by the characteristics of bilirubin metabolism and usually appears 2-3 days after birth, with a peak period from 4-6 days and gradually subsiding after 7-10 days. According to the described situation, the bilirubin index of the baby on the 26th day after birth is 14.5, which may be related to pathological jaundice. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for further diagnosis and treatment.