What is the conversion method for bilirubin (jaundice) index?

Jun 26, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My baby was diagnosed with jaundice at birth. Could you please tell me what is the conversion method for bilirubin levels?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhou Xiaofeng
The method for converting jaundice indices is straightforward and primarily used to transform the units of jaundice measurements from one form to another. Specifically, there are two units for jaundice index: mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and μmol/L (micromoles per liter). The conversion formula is: 1 mg/dL equals 17.1 μmol/L. This means that if a jaundice value is expressed in mg/dL, it can be multiplied by 17.1 to obtain the equivalent value in μmol/L. Conversely, if the jaundice value is given in μmol/L, dividing it by 17.1 will yield the value in mg/dL. This conversion method helps healthcare professionals and patients better understand the severity of jaundice, thereby facilitating more accurate diagnostic and treatment decisions.