Physiological Jaundice in Newborns: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Physiological jaundice is a term that refers to jaundice in newborn infants. It is caused by an underdeveloped liver and is quite common, especially among preterm babies, according to the Mayo Clinic. Pathological jaundice, on the other hand, is caused by one of many underlying diseases that may affect liver function.

Features

• The yellow discoloration of skin and eyes associated with jaundice is caused by a compound called bilirubin, which is a waste product produced when red blood cells are broken down. When an infant's liver is not mature enough to process bilirubin, it can build up in the blood and cause jaundice.

Types

• Physiological jaundice is usually treated by phototherapy (light therapy), although intravenous immunoglobulin transfusions and even exchange blood transfusions may be used in serious cases.

Effects

• Photoptherapy uses blue and green spectrum lights on the skin of the infant that penetrate to the blood, causing the bilirubin to break down so it can be excreted by natural processes.

Considerations

• Most cases of physiological jaundice disappear on their own, according to the Mayo Clinic, and don't require any therapeutic measures other than giving the infant more frequent feedings.

Warning

• Jaundice also can be caused by many diseases, and for any infant who presents symptoms of jaundice a licensed medical practitioner must make the diagnosis of whether the jaundice is physiological or pathological.