Page Contents
OVERVIEW
This page is designed to organize content that is relevant to the topic of jaundice in the newborn baby. This term is used often in medicine, and it is important that we become as familiar as possible with it.
WHAT EXACTLY IS IT?
Before going any farther, let us make sure we clearly define the “medical problem”. Jaundice in the newborn baby refers to
WHY IS IT A PROBLEM?
High levels of indirect/unconjugated bilirubin can cross the blood brain barrier and deposit in the structures of the brain.
ORGANIZING THE DIFFERENTIAL
The differential diagnosis for jaundice in the newborn baby can be organized in a few different ways:
- Can’t miss diagnosis
- Organ systen
- Disease category
- Diagnostic modality
- Most common diagnosis
CLINICAL “WORKUP”
Now that the possible causes of jaundice in the newborn baby have been established, the focus can shift to how one would actually “work-up” a jaundiced newborn.
- Collecting the history
- Performing the physical
- Ordering studies/tests
- Interpreting clinical data
TREATMENT
The treatment of jaundice in the newborn baby may vary depending on the etiology of the condition, and is elaborated upon more below:
Page Updated: 11.24.2016