Phototherapy in neonatal intensive care unit; an update

Abstract

Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common causes of hospitalization among full-term newborn. Most jaundice in newborn babies is a normal event and is not serious. In most cases, this jaundice will disappear after a few days, often without any special treatment.

Infants with hyperbilirubinemia of whatever the cause may develop kernicterus. The less mature the infant, the greater the susceptibility to kernicterus. Because of high frequency, serious sequelae, complex and costly management of neonatal jaundice, it is a good candidate for preventive treatment. Management of jaundiced neonates is a common and challenging issue. All infants discharged prior to 48 hours of age should be evaluated by a health care professional within 48 hours after discharge. This approach helps to assure the health status of all infants.

Bilirubin metabolism: This will be discussing the pathway of bilirubin metabolism; • !-Formation ofbilirubin. 2- Breakdown of heme. 3- Bilirubin transport. 4-Uptake of bilirubin at the hepatocyte. 5-Conjugation of bilirubin. 6- Excretion of bilirubin. 7- Enterohepatic circulation.