Neonatal jaundice, or hyperbilirubinemia, is a common condition in newborns where the skin and the whites of the eyes turn yellow due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that comes from the breakdown of red blood cells and is usually processed by the liver and excreted in bile. Since a newborn’s liver is still maturing, it might struggle to handle bilirubin effectively, leading to jaundice.
Neonatal jaundice is usually harmless and often resolves on its own or with simple treatments like phototherapy. However, if it becomes severe or lasts too long, it can lead to complications like kernicterus, which can cause neurological damage. Therefore, it’s important to detect, monitor, and manage it early to prevent complications and ensure the baby’s health.
Parents should be informed about the signs of jaundice and encouraged to seek medical help if they notice their baby’s skin or eyes becoming more yellow or if the condition persists. With proper medical care, most infants with neonatal jaundice have a good outcome.
In managing neonatal jaundice, especially when it’s severe or doesn’t respond to treatments like phototherapy, certain medications might be used to lower bilirubin levels or address underlying issues. Some common drugs used in treating neonatal jaundice include phenobarbital, IVIG, UDCA, and folic acid. These are typically used in specific situations where additional treatment is needed to manage bilirubin levels effectively and address underlying causes. Such interventions are usually guided by neonatal specialists to ensure the best outcomes for the baby.
