Question
The newborn developed jaundice shortly after birth and it has not subsided after 20 days. How should one deal with it?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice can be categorized into physiological jaundice and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice usually appears 2 to 3 days after birth and may last for 5 to 7 days before fading, generally not exceeding two weeks. However, for premature infants, the jaundice may extend to 3 to 4 weeks before subsiding, and as the age increases, the daily serum bilirubin level should not exceed 85μmol/L or less than 0.5mg/dl per hour. If the jaundice persists, it is recommended to consult a pediatrician promptly to rule out the possibility of pathological jaundice and to receive appropriate treatment under the doctor’s guidance.