Flashcard · Neonatal Jaundice

What is neonatal jaundice, and how common is it?

Answer

Neonatal jaundice is yellowish discolouration of the skin, sclera, and mucous membranes due to a raised serum bilirubin, spreading in a cephalocaudal (head-to-toe) direction. It is very common - about 50% of term and 80% of preterm babies develop jaundice in the first week, and in most it is physiological and harmless.

Clinical relevance. Recognising how common and usually benign neonatal jaundice is - while staying alert for harmful cases - frames its assessment.

More Detail

Neonatal jaundice: definition and prevalence

Neonatal jaundice is one of the commonest signs in the newborn period.

Definition

Yellowish discolouration of the skin, sclera, and mucous membranes from an increased serum bilirubin.
Spreads in a cephalocaudal (head-to-toe) direction as the level rises.

Prevalence

~50% of term babies and ~80% of preterm babies develop visible jaundice in the first week.
Most jaundice is physiological and harmless, but some babies develop severe jaundice that can be harmful if untreated.

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