Question
On the fifth day after birth, the newborn’s jaundice level reached 18. The doctor pointed out that this value is high and requires attention. In this case, does a jaundice level of 18 in newborns cause brain damage?
Answer
Jaundice in newborns is a condition caused by abnormal bilirubin metabolism, leading to an elevated bilirubin level in the blood and resulting in yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. It is one of the most common clinical problems in newborns. According to the description, it should be classified as physiological jaundice, which usually does not lead to the occurrence of bilirubin encephalopathy. Physiological jaundice refers to a temporary yellowing caused by the characteristics of bilirubin metabolism, with no other clinical symptoms except for mild loss of appetite. Generally speaking, physiological jaundice has little impact on newborns, but systematic medical treatment is still required to ensure the health of the newborn.