How to diagnose breast milk jaundice

Breast milk jaundice, also known as breastfeeding-related jaundice, is a common phenomenon in newborns, primarily caused by certain substances in breast milk affecting bilirubin metabolism. It can be diagnosed through clinical manifestations, duration of appearance, physical examination, bilirubin testing, and liver function tests. 1. Clinical manifestations: Breast milk jaundice typically occurs in newborns who are exclusively breastfed or primarily breastfed. The main clinical manifestation is yellowing of the skin; generally, there are no other significant discomforts. 2. Duration of appearance: Breast milk jaundice usually appears 3–5 days after birth, peaks at about 2 weeks of age, and then gradually declines. If breastfeeding continues, jaundice may persist for 4–12 weeks before resolving. 3. Physical examination: Doctors primarily make an initial assessment by observing the color of the infant's skin and conjunctiva, as well as evaluating the child's physical development. 4. Bilirubin testing: In cases of breast milk jaundice, the newborn's serum bilirubin levels are generally greater than 342 μmol/L. After discontinuation of breastfeeding, serum bilirubin levels gradually decrease. 5. Liver function tests: Breast milk jaundice is generally not associated with liver damage; therefore, liver function is typically normal in cases of breast milk jaundice.