Understanding severe hyperbilirubinemia and preventing kernicterus: Adjuncts in the interpretation of neonatal serum bilirubin

Hyperbilirubinemia is a condition of major importance and a source of concern to all involved in the management of the newborn. Its prevention and management should be based on the recently revised American Academy of Pediatric guidelines, with special attention paid to neonates manifesting risk factors for kernicterus. Close cooperation between the clinical laboratory and the medical team managing the newborn is an essential component in the management of a hyperbilirubinemic baby.