Question
Why do newborns develop a yellowish appearance in their skin and face, known as jaundice?
Answer
Newborn jaundice, also referred to as neonatal jaundice, is a common occurrence in most newborns. This is due to the shorter metabolic cycle of red blood cells in newborns, leading to an excessive production of bilirubin. Since the liver’s ability to excrete bilirubin is not yet mature in newborns, this causes the accumulation of bilirubin in the body, resulting in yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes. In addition, other factors such as incompatibility between maternal and fetal blood types, viral infections, or liver and bile diseases may also lead to the development of jaundice. Newborn jaundice is a condition caused by abnormal bilirubin metabolism, leading to an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood, which subsequently causes yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae. It is one of the most common clinical issues during the neonatal period.