What is Neonatal Jaundice?
Neonatal jaundice (hyperbilirubinaemia) is a yellow discolouration of the skin and whites of the eyes in newborns, caused by elevated bilirubin levels. It is extremely common, affecting 60% of term and 80% of preterm newborns in the first week. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, our paediatric team provides expert neonatal jaundice assessment and treatment.
Types
Physiological Jaundice (Normal)
- Appears on day 2–3 of life
- Peaks on days 3–5
- Resolves by day 10–14
- No treatment needed for mild cases
Pathological Jaundice (Requires Attention)
- Appears in first 24 hours (always abnormal)
- Rises rapidly
- Persists beyond 2 weeks (>3 weeks in preterm)
- Associated with dark urine and pale stools (cholestatic)
Causes of Pathological Jaundice
- Blood group incompatibility (Rh, ABO)
- G6PD deficiency
- Sepsis
- Hypothyroidism
- Biliary atresia (conjugated jaundice – surgical emergency)
Assessment
Visual assessment, transcutaneous bilirubin measurement (TcB), serum bilirubin (TSB) if TcB elevated. Direct vs indirect bilirubin to differentiate types.
Treatment
Phototherapy (Blue Light)
First-line treatment for significant jaundice. Blue-spectrum light (430–490 nm) converts bilirubin to water-soluble form. Effective and safe. Continue breastfeeding throughout.
Exchange Transfusion
For very high bilirubin levels or rapid rise. Replaces baby’s blood to remove bilirubin and sensitised red cells.
Dangers of Untreated Severe Jaundice
Extreme hyperbilirubinaemia can cause kernicterus – bilirubin deposition in the brain causing permanent brain damage, deafness, and cerebral palsy.
Expert neonatal care at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
