Bilirubin blood testing is a critical diagnostic method for determining the amount of bilirubin in the blood, particularly in neonates. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment created when red blood cells degrade, this buildup can result in jaundice. Newborns frequently experience jaundice, so it's crucial to keep an eye on their bilirubin levels and take prompt action if they rise.
This in-depth guide will cover the significance of bilirubin blood tests, its role in the diagnosis of jaundice, and the management of high bilirubin levels to support the health and well-being of newborns.
What Is Bilirubin and How Is it Connected with Jaundice?
The normal breakdown of haemoglobin in aged red blood cells results in the production of bilirubin. Adults' livers digest it and expel it from their bodies. However, because the liver is still developing in infants, there may be an excess of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to jaundice, which is characterised by a yellowing of the skin and eyes.
What Is Bilirubin Blood Test?
The level of bilirubin in the blood is determined through bilirubin blood test. It measures the two forms of unconjugated (indirect) and conjugated (direct) bilirubin. Indirect bilirubin is not water-soluble and needs to be converted to direct bilirubin in the liver to become water-soluble and be excreted.
Infants with Jaundice
Jaundice is a common condition among neonates, about 60% of full-term and 80% of premature infants suffer from this illness. It commonly manifests within the first several days following delivery and is usually not harmful. But occasionally, especially when bilirubin levels become too high, it can result in complications.
Reasons to test newborns' bilirubin levels
For infants with the risk factors or traits listed below, bilirubin blood testing is advised:
- Premature birth
- Bruising or severe birth injuries
- Mother and child's blood types are incompatible
- Jaundice symptoms within the first 24 hours after birth
- Sibling with a history of jaundice requiring treatment
Results of Bilirubin Test Interpretation
Results of tests for bilirubin are commonly expressed in milligrammes per deciliter (mg/dL) or micromoles per litre (mol/L). When bilirubin levels are somewhat raised, mild jaundice in newborns is taken into consideration, however, severe jaundice may call for medical attention. The medical professional will evaluate the baby's age, the level of bilirubin, and other risk factors to decide on the best course of action.
Also Read – What Is Jaundice and Symptoms
Management of High Bilirubin Levels
Phototherapy: Phototherapy is the most popular form of treatment for neonates with increased bilirubin levels. The baby's skin is exposed to blue-green light during phototherapy, which helps change the bilirubin into a form that the body can easily expel.
Exchange Transfusion: An exchange transfusion may be used in severe cases where phototherapy is ineffective or where bilirubin levels are steadily increasing. To reduce bilirubin levels, this procedure includes replacing the baby's blood with brand-new donor blood.
The effective management of patients with high bilirubin levels is ensured by routine follow-up with medical professionals, who also help to ward off any potential problems.
Diagnosis and treatment of infant jaundice depend heavily on bilirubin blood tests. Jaundice can be efficiently treated and neonates' wellbeing can be enhanced by early detection of excessive bilirubin levels and the use of the proper therapies, like phototherapy or exchange transfusion. Positive results for infants with jaundice depend greatly on regular monitoring and constant communication with medical professionals.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
