Question
The newborn’s bilirubin level reached 276 on the fifth day after birth, with normal signs and a good mental state (full-term, vaginal delivery). How can physiological jaundice be distinguished from pathological jaundice? The jaundice has been present for two days, and the baby is currently in good condition.
Answer
Based on the newborn’s condition, further examination is required to determine the cause of the jaundice. If it is physiological jaundice, it is recommended to temporarily stop breastfeeding and observe, while using probiotics for control. If it is pathological jaundice, further adjustment of the treatment plan is necessary to determine the specific cause of the pathological jaundice. The current principle of jaundice treatment is to lower the bilirubin level as much as possible, as both can cause damage to the newborn, especially through an incomplete blood-brain barrier. Your child’s jaundice level is relatively mild, and it is recommended to undergo a three-day phototherapy treatment.