Question
How can we identify newborn jaundice and differentiate between physiological and pathological jaundice?
Answer
Identifying and distinguishing newborn jaundice is crucial for effective treatment. Parents can recognize it based on the following characteristics:
- Physiological newborn jaundice:
- Jaundice usually appears within 2-3 days after birth.
- It gradually deepens, reaching its peak between the 4th and 6th day, then gradually subsides.
- Full-term infants typically see it disappear within 2 weeks after birth, while preterm infants usually see it go away within 3 weeks.
- The level of jaundice is generally mild, confined to the face and upper body, and the baby’s overall condition is good.
- Serum bilirubin levels exceed the normal range of 2mg/dl but are less than 12mg/dl.
- Pathological jaundice:
- Jaundice may appear very early, possibly within the first 24 hours after birth.
- The jaundice may take longer to fade, persist for an extended period, or reappear after initially fading.
- The degree of jaundice is often severe, affecting the entire body, and the skin and mucous membranes become distinctly yellow.
- During serum bilirubin tests, bilirubin levels may exceed 12mg/dl or rise rapidly, with a daily increase of more than 5mg/dl.
- In addition to jaundice, other symptoms may be present.