Jaundice Follow-up

• 1 week ago

Jaundice Follow-up

What Is Newborn Jaundice?

Newborn jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes caused by elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. It is a very common condition, affecting nearly 60% of full-term babies within the first week of life. Bilirubin is produced when red blood cells are broken down. In newborns, the liver is still developing and may not be efficient enough to eliminate bilirubin quickly, leading to a temporary buildup.

Most cases are physiological and resolve on their own. However, some forms of jaundice can be pathological and require immediate intervention. Without timely evaluation, severe jaundice can lead to kernicterus—a rare but serious type of brain damage. That’s why structured jaundice monitoring is crucial.

Why Is Jaundice Monitoring Essential?

Jaundice is not always easy to detect with the naked eye—especially in babies with darker skin tones. It may seem mild but escalate rapidly within hours. Visual inspection alone is often insufficient. Accurate and repeatable measurements are key.

Through proper follow-up:

• Bilirubin levels are closely tracked
• Timely treatment can be administered if needed
• Unnecessary phototherapy is avoided
• Parents stay well-informed and reassured

How Do We Monitor Jaundice?

Transcutaneous Bilirubin (TcB) Measurement

This is a painless, non-invasive method using a handheld device that reads bilirubin levels through the skin. Results are compared against age-based reference curves to determine whether further testing is required.

Serum Bilirubin Testing (Total/Direct)

If TcB levels are above threshold, a blood sample is taken to measure total and direct bilirubin.

• Total bilirubin shows overall levels
• Direct (conjugated) bilirubin helps assess liver-related pathology

When Is Jaundice a Cause for Concern?

The following scenarios suggest a high-risk or pathological form of jaundice:

• Jaundice appears within the first 24 hours
• The baby is premature (born before 37 weeks)
• Blood group incompatibility exists (ABO or Rh)
• Yellowing extends to the legs or palms
• Poor feeding, weight loss over 10%, or dehydration
• Excessive sleepiness, weak suck, or low activity
• Jaundice persists beyond 14 days of life

Such cases require prompt evaluation to prevent complications and determine whether phototherapy is needed.

What Happens If Treatment Is Needed?

Phototherapy (Light Therapy)

Phototherapy uses specific wavelengths of blue light to help break down bilirubin through the skin. It’s typically done in the hospital but can sometimes be arranged at home under medical supervision. Phototherapy is highly effective and safe when used appropriately.

Supportive Measures

• Increase breastfeeding frequency (frequent feeds promote bilirubin excretion)
• Provide supplemental fluids if needed
• Closely monitor bilirubin trends with regular re-checks
• Educate and emotionally support parents throughout the process

Types of Jaundice and Their Management

What Do Parents Often Ask?

Parents often experience anxiety about jaundice. Some common concerns include:

• “Will jaundice harm my baby’s brain?”
• “Is phototherapy dangerous or painful?”
• “Is my milk causing the problem?”
• “Why does my baby look yellow but seem active?”

Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu addresses these questions with clarity and compassion. Families are given detailed information about bilirubin trends, test results, and treatment plans in simple, understandable terms.

Why Choose Dr. Ekin Pasinlioğlu for Jaundice Monitoring?

• Extensive experience distinguishing physiological and pathological jaundice
• Observation training at Cleveland Clinic’s NICU for advanced neonatal care
• Avoids unnecessary interventions while acting promptly when needed
• Communicates transparently with families during every step of follow-up