Is a bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL normal?
Jan 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Feng
Introduction
A bilirubin level between 5 and 7 mg/dL in newborns is generally considered normal and falls within the range of physiological jaundice. Therefore, a bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL is normal in newborns. The normal bilirubin range for adults is typically 0.2–1.0 mg/dL. Thus, a bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL in adults is significantly higher than the normal range.
A bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL falls within the normal range for newborns, but is elevated in adults and may require a hospital visit for further evaluation to rule out pathological causes. The analysis is as follows:
Jaundice is a common symptom and sign caused by impaired bilirubin metabolism, leading to increased serum bilirubin levels. Clinically, it manifests as yellow discoloration of the sclera, mucous membranes, skin, and other tissues. The sclera contains abundant elastin, which has a high affinity for bilirubin; therefore, yellowing of the sclera is often the earliest detectable sign of jaundice, appearing before changes in the mucous membranes or skin.
In newborns, bilirubin levels between 5 and 7 mg/dL are generally considered normal and fall within the range of physiological jaundice. Therefore, a bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL is still considered normal in newborns.
In adults, the normal bilirubin range is typically 0.2–1.0 mg/dL. Thus, a bilirubin level of 7.3 mg/dL in an adult is significantly above the normal range and may indicate pathological jaundice, requiring further investigation and treatment.
It is important to monitor newborns closely. If their skin becomes progressively more yellow, accompanied by poor feeding, lethargy, and frequent irritability, they should be taken to the hospital for further evaluation.
