Jaundice in Newborns
Jaundice in newborns is one of the most common conditions affecting newborn babies that causes concern to their mothers. New mothers are frequently caused worry by the yellowish discoloration of the skin and sclera (the whites of the eyes) in their babies.
Jaundice is caused by the accumulation of unconjugated (before conjugation process takes place in liver) bilirubin due to the immature development of the baby’s liver. This condition is deemed as a normal transitional condition in the 1st week of life and is known as Physiological jaundice.
However, if the serum bilirubin levels rise too excessively, it may be because for due concern. Unconjugated bilirubin can penetrate the blood-brain barrier and is neurotoxic (toxic to the brain-neuro). It can cause death in newborns. Infants who survive would have lifelong neurologic sequelae. Increased levels of unconjugated-indirect bilirubin which is free (not bound to albumin) may cause kernicterus damage to the brain centers of those infants.
Such conditions frequently warrants diagnostic evaluation to ensure that the neonatal jaundice does not turn fatal.
Be alert if the child presents with the following symptoms, including jaundice, pale skin/pallor (RBCs destroyed), persistent/severe tiredness (due to low oxygen carrying capacity as a result of low RBC after being destroyed) and dark urine.
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