Jaundice in Infants

Jaundice in Infants

 

Yellowing condition in newborn infants, also known as jaundice, is found in 50% of cases. The yellow substance that we can see on the baby's skin can be measured through a blood test called bilirubin, which is a result of the breakdown of red blood cells in the baby. Bilirubin is eliminated by the liver and excreted through the baby's stool.

 

The main causes of jaundice can be divided into two groups. The first group is called physiologic jaundice, which is a normal condition and not dangerous. The second group is called pathologic jaundice, which is dangerous and has clear causes, including:

 

  1. Increased breakdown of red blood cells
  2. Abnormal liver function
  3. Breastfeeding, although the mechanism for this cause is unclear.

 

Treatment:

 

In normal circumstances, jaundice in babies aged 7-10 days will resolve on its own. In high risk cases, medical intervention according to the American Academy of Pediatrics will occur. There are 2 main approaches:

 

1. If bilirubin levels are moderate, light therapy will be used to decrease the number.

2. If bilirubin levels are high, or if light therapy was ineffective, a blood transfusion must be done.

 

Some may believe that putting babies out in the sun may help their jaundice, which it may help slightly. However, the light used in light therapy and natural sunlight are quite different, so it cannot be said that sunlight can replace light therapy.

 

Parents should keep an eye out for their baby’s skin tint around their face, trunk, and limbs. If the baby appears to be abnormally yellow, it is advised to seek medical help immediately.

 

Some parents may wonder if breastfeeding must be stopped during light therapy, but that is only the case if infants are shown to have high bilirubin levels for 24-48 consecutive hours. When the jaundice goes away, normal breastfeeding can resume.

 

For more information, contact Department of Pediatrics at Vibhavadi Hospital Tel. 02-561-1111 ext. 4220, 4221