Patient's question:
Baby was born on the 6th day and had a thorough check-up at the hospital with a bilirubin level of 437. After one day of blue light and human serum albumin treatment, it dropped to 279. Very worried that high bilirubin could harm the brain, the baby has had no complications so far and is doing well with feeding, napping, and spirits. After 5 days of hospitalization, all tests were conducted, but the cause of the high bilirubin was not found. The baby is healthy except for the high bilirubin. Will this high level of bilirubin damage the baby's brain nerves?Doctor's answer:
Neonatal jaundice usually reappears around 2-3 days and peaks between 4-5 days. Full-term infants naturally recover within 7-14 days, generally in good condition. Based on your description, your baby has pathological jaundice, which, if hemolysis is ruled out, is neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. There are generally multiple possible causes, such as infections or liver function abnormalities. Since your baby is feeding and napping normally, it is likely that there is no interference with the brain. It is recommended to undergo a follow-up brain MRI.