Question
Neonatal jaundice in a baby weighing about 2.5 kilograms has recently shown symptoms such as loss of appetite, weak suckling, or choking while feeding. It is said that if not treated promptly, it may lead to complications such as intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy. How should it be handled?
Answer
When neonatal jaundice starts to affect appetite, it may be necessary to consider using medication to lower the bilirubin level and adopt phototherapy. This method is simple and can reduce unbound bilirubin in the serum by transforming the bilirubin structure through light therapy, changing it from liposoluble to water-soluble. It does not require metabolism by the liver and can be directly excreted from bile or urine. Wishing the patient a speedy recovery!