Question
Why do newborns have jaundice? What is the normal range of jaundice?
Answer
Hello, the normal range of newborn jaundice is based on the reference of serum bilirubin levels. As long as full-term infants do not exceed 204 micromoles/liter (12 mg/dL) and premature infants do not exceed 255 micromoles/liter (15 mg/dL), it is considered normal. Physiological jaundice in newborns, besides the yellowing of the skin, has little impact on appetite and spirit, and symptoms usually disappear spontaneously within a month. Pathological jaundice, however, not only involves skin changes but also often includes crying and refusing to nurse. In such cases, parents must bring their child to the hospital for treatment promptly, as it may lead to kernicterus.