Question
The neonate’s bilirubin levels were measured as follows on the second day after birth: facial 14.7mg/dL, trunk 11.4mg/dL; and on the third day, the values were facial 22.7mg/dL, trunk 17.8mg/dL, total bilirubin 394.2μmol/L. The mother’s blood type is B, the father’s blood type is A, and the neonate’s blood type is B. Is this level of jaundice normal? How should it be handled?
Answer
The bilirubin level measured on the second day after birth falls within the normal range, however, the values on the third day indicate an abnormality. The neonate’s blood type matches that of the parents, which is a normal condition. For the treatment of jaundice, it is recommended to undergo blue light therapy in the hospital. If the jaundice is caused by liver and gallbladder damp-heat, consider taking corresponding granule medications for treatment. Given the possibility of pathological jaundice, timely blood tests should be conducted to assess liver function, and G6-PD testing should be done to rule out favism. We hope the neonate grows up healthy.