How long does jaundice last in a 36-week premature infant?

Jan 09, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

The grandson at my aunt's home is a premature baby born at 36 weeks and has obvious jaundice. How long does it take for jaundice to resolve in a baby born at 36 weeks?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ma Yan
Jaundice in premature infants born at 36 weeks usually resolves within about one week. Jaundice is common among preterm infants and generally appears 3 to 5 days after birth, sometimes peaking around 7 to 9 days, and may take up to four weeks to disappear completely. With appropriate treatment, jaundice typically resolves within a week. Pathological jaundice usually resolves within approximately one month. Therefore, when jaundice occurs in a premature infant, an initial physical assessment and accurate diagnosis are essential to determine the specific condition and implement appropriate treatment and care measures accordingly.