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Jaundice in Infants

Neonatal jaundice is mostly physiological; however, high bilirubin levels can cause brain damage.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department. Book Appointment →

What is Jaundice in Infants?

Neonatal jaundice occurs with the accumulation of bilirubin pigment in the blood. The main cause of physiological jaundice is the breakdown of fetal hemoglobin in newborns and the fact that the liver's bilirubin conjugation capacity has not yet matured.

Physiological jaundice begins 2-3 days after birth, peaks on day 5-7 and usually resolves spontaneously within 2 weeks. In contrast, pathological jaundice starts within the first 24 hours or bilirubin rises rapidly; this may indicate hemolytic disease (Rh incompatibility, ABO incompatibility), infection or liver disease.

Untreated severe hyperbilirubinemia (kernicterus/bilirubin encephalopathy) can cause permanent brain damage. For this reason, bilirubin levels should be monitored according to age with photometry or blood tests.

Symptoms

Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (spreads from head to toe)
Dark urine, light-colored stool (in pathological jaundice)
Feeding difficulty and lethargy (sign of high bilirubin)
Jaundice starting in the first 24 hours (pathological — emergency evaluation)
Jaundice lasting longer than 2 weeks (prolonged jaundice — requires investigation)

Risk Factors

Prematurity
Mother-infant blood group incompatibility (Rh or ABO)
Inadequate breastfeeding (breastfeeding jaundice)
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency
Cephalhematoma or bruising
Sibling with family history of jaundice

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • If jaundice starts in the first 24 hours after birth
  • If jaundice spreads to the soles of the feet
  • If the baby is not feeding, sleeping too much or not crying
  • If urine is dark, stool is white
  • If jaundice still persists 2 weeks after birth

Treatment Methods

01
Phototherapy: Application of blue light (448-490 nm) according to bilirubin threshold
02
Adequate feeding: Increasing bilirubin excretion with frequent breastfeeding or supplemental formula
03
Exchange transfusion: At very high bilirubin levels
04
IVIG (intravenous immunoglobulin) for hemolytic cause
05
In prolonged jaundice, thyroid, liver and metabolic workup
06
Bilirubin check 24-48 hours after discharge

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.