In the newborn increased erythrocyte breakdown or decreased liver function can both cause physiological jaundice. This condition appears at two or three days old and begins to disappear towards the end of the first week.
Pathological jaundice is more severe and prolonged in preterm infants. Also, conjugation may be limited by hypoglycaemia and hypoxia. An increased enteric absorption of bilirubin may occur if the infant has a bowel obstruction or an ileus.
The condition is asymptomatic in the neonate but may reach toxic levels in the preterm infant.
Management is dependent on level of bilirubin.
Add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation, such as a web address or phone number. This information will always be displayed when you visit this page