Neonatal Jaundice Disease Summary

Last updated: 12 August 2022

Overview

Jaundice typically presents on the 2nd-3rd day of life. It is usually first seen on the face and forehead then progresses caudally to the trunk and extremities.
Danger signs in a newborn infant with jaundice includes changes in brainstem evoked auditory potentials, changes in muscle tone, seizures and altered cry characteristics.
Jaundice that appears in a newborn <24 hour old is most likely nonphysiologic and needs further evaluation; visible jaundice of the feet may be an indication to check bilirubin level.
A total serum bilirubin (TSB) level of >25 mg/dL (428 µmol/L) at any time is a medical emergency and indicates prompt hospital admission and initiation of treatment.

For further information regarding the management of Neonatal Jaundice, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.