Side effects of phototherapy in newborns

Oct 12, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Xie Zixing

Introduction

Phototherapy in newborns may cause side effects such as retinal damage, rashes, and bronze baby syndrome. To prevent adverse effects during phototherapy, it is essential to protect the newborn's eyes by using eye masks or goggles and to follow standardized procedures, thereby enhancing the safety of phototherapy. It is recommended to undergo phototherapy treatment at a正规 medical facility.

Phototherapy in newborns may cause side effects such as retinal damage, rashes, and bronze baby syndrome.

1. Retinal Damage

During phototherapy, improper procedures may expose the retina to photochemical reactions, potentially leading to retinal injury in newborns.

2. Rashes

Newborns have extremely delicate skin. If proper skin care is not maintained during phototherapy, it may result in dryness or the development of skin rashes such as roseola.

3. Bronze Baby Syndrome

If a newborn has elevated levels of direct bilirubin, phototherapy—particularly when used to treat jaundice associated with high conjugated bilirubin—may cause the skin to turn bronze, resulting in bronze baby syndrome.

To prevent adverse side effects during neonatal phototherapy, it is essential to protect the infant's eyes by using eye masks or goggles, ensure proper procedural techniques, and thereby enhance the safety of treatment. It is recommended to undergo phototherapy at a reputable medical facility.

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