Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia

Five hundred Monates referred with unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia were studied. ABO incompatibility was responsible for 22.6% G-6PD deficiency for 18.2%, septicemia for 11.6% and Rh incompatibility for 9.8% of the cases. No cause could be established in 35% of the cases. 74.8% of the babies were treated outside before being referred and in 5% of these the level of bilirubin was more than 40 mg/dl. The type of treatment given included antibiotics, steroids, livertonics, phenobarbitone besides phototherapy. 10.4% of the cases had evidence of kemicterus at admission. 54% needed exchange transfusion with 27% requiring more than one. It is recommended that a better understanding and awareness about neonatal hyperbilirubinemia be created among all doctors coming in contact with neonates to ensure a timely referral.