JAUNDICE IN THE

NEWBORN
(HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA)
Ns. Zulharmaswita
A. Definition
Hyperbilirubinemia (jaundice) in the
neonate is an accumulation of serum
bilirubin above normal levels.
Onset of clinical jaundice seen when
serum bilirubin levels are 5 to 7
mg/100 dL.

Kernicterus is a yellow discoloration
of specific areas of brain tissue by
unconjugated bilirubin; can be
confirmed only by death and
autopsy.
Bilirubin encephalopathy best
describes the occurrence of the
syndrome and the accompanying
neurologic sequela in neonates.

Pathophysiology and Etiology
Increased bilirubin load.
Extravascular blood.
Decrease or inhibition of bilirubin
conjugation.
Increased extrahepatic circulation.
Polycythemia.

Hypothyroidism.
Familial, transientassociated with
inhibiting factor in plasma.
Unknown.
Obstructive disorders.
Intrauterine infection.

Pathophysiology and Etiology