Question
How long does neonatal jaundice usually take to disappear?
Answer
Neonatal jaundice refers to a common symptom characterized by hyperbilirubinemia due to abnormal bilirubin metabolism during the neonatal period, resulting in yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and sclera. This condition can be classified into two main types: physiological and pathological. Physiological jaundice is a temporary condition caused by the characteristics of bilirubin metabolism and usually appears 2 to 3 days after birth, reaches its peak between 4 and 6 days, and resolves within 7 to 10 days. In premature infants, the jaundice may take longer to resolve. Apart from mild loss of appetite, there are no other clinical symptoms. If the jaundice persists beyond the normal duration, one should be cautious of pathological jaundice.