Question

Pathologic Jaundice = on 1st DOL, bili >12, d-bili >2, rate of rise >5/day.

Test: Coombs
Positive: Rh or ABO incompatability
Negative: twin/twin or mom/fetus transfusion, IDM, spherocytosis, G6p-DH deficiency, etc.
A) Jaundice appearing on the 2nd day of life
B) Total bilirubin level of 10 mg/dL on the 2nd day of life
C) Direct bilirubin level of 1 mg/dL on the 3rd day of life
D) Rate of bilirubin rise of 3 mg/dL per day
E) Total bilirubin level >12 mg/dL on the 1st day of life, direct bilirubin >2 mg/dL, and a rate of rise >5 mg/dL per day

Answer 1

Pathologic jaundice in newborns is a condition where excess bilirubin causes yellowing of the skin and other tissues and requires careful monitoring and treatment to avoid complications like kernicterus. The Coombs' test helps diagnose the underlying cause, which can include hemolytic diseases due to incompatibilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Pathologic jaundice in newborns involves abnormally high levels of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to serious complications if not monitored and treated appropriately. Jaundice is often classified based on its etiology into different types, such as unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, obstructive jaundice, and infective jaundice. The Coombs' test can aid in identifying the cause of jaundice, especially when considering conditions like Rh or ABO incompatibility that could lead to hemolysis and subsequent hyperbilirubinemia. In newborns, it's critical to clear excess bilirubin from the bloodstream to prevent complications like kernicterus, a form of brain damage that occurs when bilirubin crosses the immature blood-brain barrier. Treatment such as phototherapy is employed to lower bilirubin levels and reduce the risk of kernicterus.