Question
My 45-day-old baby has a bilirubin level of 7.8 on the forehead and 4.8 on the body. The health station refused to give injections due to the high bilirubin level. Why is the bilirubin level high on the forehead but normal elsewhere? What should we do to lower the bilirubin level?
Answer
Newborn jaundice refers to an increase in bilirubin levels in newborns due to abnormal bilirubin metabolism, leading to yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclerae, which is one of the most common clinical problems in newborns. The disease can be divided into physiological and pathological categories. Bilirubin measurements mainly involve blood tests for bilirubin concentration or transcutaneous bilirubin measurement, typically performed on areas such as the forehead, chest, and limbs. It is recommended to consult with a doctor after the test to understand the baby’s condition.