Single Best Answer (SBA) · Neonatal Jaundice
What is the typical time course of physiological jaundice in a term neonate?
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Answer: B. It appears after 24 hours, peaks at 48-72 hours, and clears by a week
Physiological jaundice
Physiological jaundice appears after 24 hours, peaks at 48-72 hours, and resolves by about one week. It is due to unconjugated hyperbilirubinaemia and is usually harmless.
Why it happens
- Increased red cell breakdown with a shorter neonatal RBC lifespan.
- Hepatic immaturity delaying conjugation.
- Increased enterohepatic circulation of bilirubin.
Prevalence
- About 50-60% of term and 80% of preterm babies develop jaundice in the first week.
- Phototherapy is needed in about 10%; most need no treatment.
Distinguishing from pathological jaundice
| Feature | Physiological | Pathological |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | After 24 h | < 24 h (or prolonged) |
| Type | Unconjugated | Haemolytic/conjugated etc. |
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