How to test for neonatal jaundice?

Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
Updated on January 07, 2025
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Neonatal jaundice is relatively common during the newborn period, with about 80% of full-term babies showing visible yellowing of the skin. Typically, jaundice is measured using a jaundice meter, such devices are available in common community hospitals as well as in major hospitals like People's Hospital or maternity and children's health facilities, or other comprehensive hospitals. This is generally done through transcutaneous bilirubin measurement. If the transcutaneous bilirubin levels are high, it is necessary to determine the specific degree of jaundice, at which point a blood test to check liver function is required to assess the bilirubin levels more precisely.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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neonatal jaundice subsidence time

Neonatal jaundice is a common phenomenon and a unique condition in newborns. If it is normal physiological jaundice, it generally subsides within two weeks for full-term infants born after 37 weeks. This means that after two weeks, the jaundice is essentially gone; the skin and eyes are no longer yellow, and bilirubin levels are typically below 6-7, which is considered normal. For premature infants, the jaundice generally clears within four weeks. If the jaundice persists longer, there might be some pathological factors involved, and it is advisable to visit a hospital for a thorough evaluation by a doctor to determine if any special treatment is needed.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Does neonatal jaundice cause fever?

Fever in newborns with simple jaundice is relatively rare. If a newborn has jaundice accompanied by fever, it is important to be vigilant for the possibility of sepsis. Since the symptoms of sepsis in newborns are atypical and non-specific, it is essential to take this seriously. It is recommended that parents promptly take the child to the hospital for examination. A blood culture should be performed to determine if sepsis is present. If the jaundice is excessively high, active phototherapy may be necessary to reduce the bilirubin levels.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Do newborns with jaundice need to be hospitalized?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in newborns, especially in premature newborns. It can either be a normal developmental symptom or an indication of certain diseases. In severe cases, it can lead to brain damage. Generally, about 80% of full-term newborns show visible signs of jaundice under normal conditions. However, it is crucial to differentiate between physiological and pathological jaundice. Physiological jaundice generally does not require intervention. If it is pathological jaundice, timely intervention and treatment are necessary because it can be an indication of various diseases. Without timely intervention, the baby might develop other serious complications. The most severe cases can see a continuous increase in bilirubin levels that might enter the brain, leading to kernicterus, and even cause hearing loss, possibly endangering life. Generally, if jaundice persists for a longer time, progresses rapidly, and is severe, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. If it is pathological jaundice, hospitalization for timely treatment is necessary. Neonatal jaundice is a critical indicator that requires close attention and monitoring.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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Neonatal jaundice, how many days can it completely subside?

Neonatal jaundice is one of the common symptoms in newborns, especially in early newborns. Neonatal jaundice can be a normal physiological phenomenon, but it can also be a manifestation of certain diseases. Generally, if it is physiological jaundice in full-term babies, it usually resolves within about ten days, and generally lasts no longer than two weeks. In premature babies, it tends to last longer, generally not exceeding four weeks. However, if the jaundice persists for a long time, progresses quickly, and is severe, it may be pathological jaundice. Pathological jaundice might be associated with other discomforts, and in such cases, it is necessary to identify possible pathological factors and treat them accordingly to gradually control and reduce the jaundice. Therefore, if the jaundice persists for a long time, it is advisable to go to the hospital for some relevant tests to determine its nature, and if it is pathological jaundice, timely intervention and treatment are recommended.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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How long should a newborn be exposed to blue light for jaundice?

If a baby's jaundice requires blue light therapy, it indicates that the jaundice is quite severe and is pathological. Blue light is one of the most effective treatments for jaundice, typically administered either continuously or intermittently. Continuous exposure is generally for a longer duration, such as for more severe conditions like hemolysis or serious infections, which cause a significant increase in jaundice levels, and typically requires 24 to 48 hours of continuous light treatment. If the jaundice is not very severe but still elevated, intermittent light treatment is usually adopted, lasting anywhere from 6 to 16 hours. Generally, if the jaundice does not rebound significantly after light treatment, there is no need for further light exposure. However, if the jaundice rebounds, additional treatment may be necessary. The duration of light therapy for jaundice depends on the baby's condition. If the cause of the jaundice is identified and treated, and the condition stabilizes, the duration of blue light therapy may be reduced. However, if the jaundice repeats or rebounds severely and is associated with significant pathological factors that are not fully controlled, then the treatment duration for jaundice will be longer.