Definitions

Neonatal jaundice


Overview

Neonatal jaundice is common in preterm babies. The cause is often an immature liver. Infection, medications, or blood disorders may cause more-serious cases.

Symptoms

Symptoms include yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes that appears within days after birth.

Treatments

In most cases, treatment isn't needed. Light therapy (phototherapy) and blood transfusions can help resolve moderate or severe cases.