What causes high total bilirubin in newborns?

Generally, elevated total bilirubin levels in newborns may be caused by delayed passage of meconium, immature liver and biliary development, hemolysis, congenital hypothyroidism, hepatitis, and other factors. If any symptoms of discomfort appear, it is recommended to seek medical treatment at a hospital promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Delayed Passage of Meconium

Normally, newborns pass meconium within 24 hours after birth. If meconium isn't expelled timely, bilirubin may be reabsorbed through the intestines, leading to elevated total bilirubin levels. Massaging the infant's abdomen in a clockwise direction can stimulate intestinal motility and help promote the passage of meconium.

2. Immature Liver and Biliary Development

If a newborn's liver and gallbladder are not fully developed, it may lead to abnormal metabolism and excretion of bilirubin, resulting in elevated total bilirubin levels. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as yellowing of the whites of the eyes and dark yellow urine. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as silybinin dimethylaminoacetate tablets, glucuronic acid lactone tablets, and compound glycyrrhizic acid tablets.

3. Hemolysis

When there is an incompatibility between the mother's and baby's blood types, red blood cells may be destroyed, leading to hemoglobin breakdown and the production of excessive bilirubin. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin. Treatment under medical guidance may involve medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, hydrocortisone acetate tablets, and dexamethasone tablets.

4. Congenital Hypothyroidism

Newborns with this condition may experience a reduced metabolic rate, which affects bilirubin metabolism and excretion, causing elevated total bilirubin levels. It may also be accompanied by symptoms such as delayed growth and development and intellectual disability. Treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, Prunella vulgaris capsules, and thyroid tablets.

5. Hepatitis

Hepatitis is caused by hepatitis viruses and may damage liver function, affecting bilirubin metabolism and excretion, thereby causing elevated total bilirubin levels. Treatment under medical guidance may involve medications such as anti-inflammatory and bile-promoting tablets, ganciclovir tablets, and lamivudine tablets.

In daily life, after birth, newborns should undergo regular medical check-ups at hospitals to screen for common neonatal diseases and monitor their health status promptly.