Question
Is newborn jaundice related to hemolysis? My daughter’s bilirubin level seems to be 15.3. Is this serious?
Answer
Newborn jaundice refers to the condition where the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera become yellow due to an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood, caused by abnormal bilirubin metabolism during the neonatal period. This is one of the most common clinical issues in newborns. Most cases of jaundice are physiological, while hemolytic jaundice is relatively rare. Based on the current situation, the newborn’s bilirubin level is significantly elevated, and it is recommended to undergo phototherapy to prevent the occurrence of kernicterus.