P58: Neonatal jaundice due to other excessive haemolysis

Neonatal jaunce due to other excessive haemolysis is a condition that affects newborn babies, typically appearing within the first few days of life. This condition occurs when a baby's body breaks down red blood cells at an accelerated rate, leading to an excessive amount of a byproduct called bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is responsible for the yellowing of a baby's skin and eyes, a key identifier of jaundice. Due to this rapid breakdown of red blood cells, the liver, which is responsible for processing bilirubin, can't keep up, leading to this excess. Symptoms may include yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, along with lethargy and difficulty feeding. The condition is not directly transmissible, but underlying causes like blood type incompatibilities, inherited blood disorders, or certain infections can lead to this form of jaundice. Early recognition and management of the condition is crucial to prevent potential complications such as bilirubin-induced brain damage.