Patient's question:
After my baby was born, his skin started turning yellow. When the doctor examined him, they said it was normal. However, after 7 days, it hasn't improved and has become worse. The doctor said it's due to hepatosplenomegaly. Is hepatosplenomegaly serious in newborns?Doctor's answer:
Hello. Based on your situation, encountering neonatal hepatosplenomegaly should prompt a prompt identification of the cause. The distinction is between a benign self-limiting disease or a malignant lesion. Neonatal hepatosplenomegaly is a common clinical symptom. There are many diseases that can cause hepatosplenomegaly, and the diagnosis and treatment are challenging. The upper boundary of the liver in normal newborns is generally at the fourth intercostal space on the right midclavicular line. The lower boundary is usually below the right costal margin by 1-2 cm, at the xiphoid process. The lower boundary of the liver is more easily palpated and is approximately 2 cm. The spleen is soft and cannot be palpated below the costal margin on the left midclavicular line in newborns. If the size of the liver and spleen in newborns exceeds the above range, it can be considered hepatosplenomegaly.