Jaundice in the newborn

Abstract

This is the yellowish discolouration of the skin and mucous membranes and sclera in a neonate. It is the commonest symptom in the newborn period and 'is a manifestation of hyperbilirubinaemia. It becomes apparent when serum bilirubin is 5-7mgldl. It is a common pediatric problem worldwide. It is the commonest clinical sign in the neonatal period and the commonest cause of neonatal admission in Nigeria. It accounts for 57% and 60% of neonatal admissions in UCH and LUTH respectively while the figures are 16.3% of neonatal and16.8% of paediatric admission in ABUTH and UNTH respectively. At least 25% of term neonates develop clinical jaundice while the figure can be up to 80% in preterm babies.