Question

How much jaundice in newborns is considered normal?

Answer

Generally, newborns will have jaundice, most of which is physiological jaundice, and a small portion is viral jaundice. For full-term infants, a jaundice level of no more than 12.9mg/dL is considered normal, while for premature infants, it should not exceed 15mg/dL. Typically, jaundice appears within 2-3 days after birth. If jaundice appears within 24 hours, it may be considered pathological jaundice, and it is important to actively investigate the cause and provide timely treatment. Premature infants may experience jaundice earlier and for a longer duration, but the jaundice level should not exceed 15mg/dL.