Neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia

Neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia is an extremely common condition which continues to be a significant cause of readmission of neonates to hospitals. The aim of early recognition and appropriate treatment is to prevent bilirubin encephalopathy which can cause severe neurodisability. This article reviews the national guidelines issued by various organizations like American Academy of Paediatrics in USA and National Institute of Clinical Excellence in the UK which have attempted to standardize approaches to diagnosis and management. This review highlights how early detection with measurement of bilirubin as opposed to visual estimation and appropriate use of high intensity phototherapy based on recommended treatment threshold charts reduces the incidence of severe jaundice requiring exchange transfusion and how evaluation and support of new mothers and their babies in the community by trained nurses with access to transcutaneous bilirubinometers can reduce hospital referrals while providing safe care at home.