Interpretation of the 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for the management of hyperbilirubinemia in newborn infants / 中国当代儿科杂志

The American Academy of Pediatrics updated the guidelines for the management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infants with a gestational age of ≥35 weeks in September 2022. Based on the evidence over the past 18 years, the guidelines are updated from the aspects of the prevention, risk assessment, intervention, and follow-up of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infants with a gestational age of ≥35 weeks. This article gives an interpretation of the key points in the guidelines, so as to safely reduce the risk of bilirubin encephalopathy and unnecessary intervention.

Preadmission follow-up condition of neonates hospitalized due to severe hyperbilirubinemia after discharge from the department of obstetrics and influencing factors for follow-up compliance: a multicenter investigation / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVES@#To investigate the preadmission follow-up condition of neonates hospitalized due to severe hyperbilirubinemia after discharge from the department of obstetrics and the influencing factors for follow-up compliance.@*METHODS@#A multicenter retrospective case-control study was performed for the cases from the multicenter clinical database of 12 units in the Quality Improvement Clinical Research Cooperative Group of Neonatal Severe Hyperbilirubinemia in Jiangsu Province of China from January 2019 to April 2021. According to whether the follow-up of neonatal jaundice was conducted on time after discharge from the department of obstetrics, the neonates were divided into two groups: good follow-up compliance and poor follow-up compliance. The multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the influencing factors for follow-up compliance of the neonates before admission.@*RESULTS@#A total of 545 neonates with severe hyperbilirubinemia were included in the study, with 156 neonates (28.6%) in the good follow-up compliance group and 389 (71.4%) in the poor follow-up compliance group. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that low gestational age at birth, ≥10% reduction in body weight on admission compared with birth weight, history of phototherapy of siblings, history of exchange transfusion of siblings, Rh(-) blood type of the mother, a higher educational level of the mother, the use of WeChat official account by medical staff to remind of follow-up before discharge from the department of obstetrics, and the method of telephone notification to remind of follow-up after discharge were associated with the increase in follow-up compliance (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Poor follow-up compliance is observed for the neonates with severe hyperbilirubinemia after discharge from the department of obstetrics, which suggests that it is necessary to further strengthen the education of jaundice to parents before discharge and improve the awareness of jaundice follow-up. It is recommended to remind parents to follow up on time by phone or WeChat official account.

Intensive phototherapy vs. exchange transfusion for the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia: a multicenter retrospective cohort study / 中华医学杂志(英文版)

BACKGROUND@#Intensive phototherapy (IPT) and exchange transfusion (ET) are the main treatments for extreme hyperbilirubinemia. However, there is no reliable evidence on determining the thresholds for these treatments. This multicenter study compared the effectiveness and complications of IPT and ET in the treatment of extreme hyperbilirubinemia.@*METHODS@#This retrospective cohort study was conducted in seven centers from January 2015 to January 2018. Patients with extreme hyperbilirubinemia that met the criteria of ET were included. Patients were divided into three subgroups (low-, medium-, and high- risk) according to gestational week and risk factors. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to balance the data before treatment. Study outcomes included the development of bilirubin encephalopathy, duration of hospitalization, expenses, and complications. Mortality, auditory complications, seizures, enamel dysplasia, ocular motility disorders, athetosis, motor, and language development were evaluated during follow-up at age of 3 years.@*RESULTS@#A total of 1164 patients were included in this study. After PSM, 296 patients in the IPT only group and 296 patients in the IPT plus ET group were further divided into the low-, medium-, and high-risk subgroups with 188, 364, and 40 matched patients, respectively. No significant differences were found between the IPT only and IPT plus ET groups in terms of morbidity, complications, and sequelae. Hospitalization duration and expenses were lower in the low- and medium-risk subgroups in the IPT only group.@*CONCLUSIONS@#In this study, our results suggest that IPT is a safe and effective treatment for extreme hyperbilirubinemia. The indication of ET for patients with hyperbilirubinemia could be stricter. However, it is necessary to have a contingency plan for emergency ET as soon as IPT is commenced especially for infants with risk factors. If IPT can be guaranteed and proved to be therapeutic, ET should be avoided as much as possible.

Effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii combined with phototherapy in the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in neonates: a prospective randomized controlled trial / 中国当代儿科杂志

OBJECTIVE@#To study the effectiveness of Saccharomyces boulardii combined with phototherapy in the treatment of hyperbilirubinemia in neonates.@*METHODS@#The neonates with hyperbilirubinemia who were hospitalized from January to December 2018 were enrolled and randomly divided into an observation group (n=61) and a control group (n=63). The neonates in the observation group were treated with phototherapy combined with Saccharomyces boulardii, and those in the control group were treated with phototherapy combined with placebo. Treatment outcomes were compared between the two groups. Fecal samples were collected 72 hours after treatment and 16s rRNA high-throughput sequencing was used to compare the features of gut microbiota between the two groups.@*RESULTS@#There was no significant difference in the total serum bilirubin level between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05). At 24, 48, and 72 hours after treatment, the observation group had a significantly lower level of total serum bilirubin than the control group (P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the observation group had a significantly lower proportion of neonates requiring phototherapy again [20% (12/61) vs 75% (47/63), P<0.05]. Compared with the control group, the observation group had a significantly higher abundance of Bacteroides (P<0.05) and a significantly lower abundance of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus in the intestine at 72 hours after treatment (P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#In neonates with hyperbilirubinemia, phototherapy combined with Saccharomyces boulardii can effectively reduce bilirubin level and prevent the recurrence of jaundice. Saccharomyces boulardii can favour the treatment outcome by regulating the gut microbiota of neonates.

Comparación de la eficacia de la fototerapia convencional con tubos de luz azul vs. LEDs / Comparison of the efficacy of conventional phototherapy with blue light tubes vs LEDs

Introducción: La hiperbilirrubinemia (HB) es la principal causa de ingreso en unidades neonatales de bajo riesgo. Nuevos dispositivos de fototerapia (FT) permiten el uso de irradiación a dosis alta. Objetivo: Comparar la eficacia de la FT aplicada con equipos de tubos de luz azul (30 µW/cm2/nm) y FT con tecnología LED’s a dos niveles de irradiancia (30 y 40 µW/ cm2/nm) en términos de duración del tratamiento. Material y métodos: Estudio prospectivo, controlado y randomizado. Los recién nacidos de término o cercanos al término que necesitaban tratamiento con luminoterapia fueron aleatorizados a tres grupos: 1) luz azul a 30 µW/cm2/nm (LC), 2) LED a 30 µW/cm2/nm (L30), y 3) LED a 40 µW/cm2/nm (L40). Resultados: Se incluyeron 165 pacientes, 54 en LC, 56 en L30 y 55 en el grupo L40. El peso al nacer, edad gestacional, horas a la aleatorización y los valores BST al ingreso a FT (18,9 ± 2 mg/dl en BL, 18,9 ± 2,2 en L30 y 19 ± 1,6 en L40) fueron similares. El tiempo total (horas) de FT fue: 54,4 ± 6,9 en LC, 53,4 ± 10,7 en L30 y 41,7 ± 6 en L40 (p <0,001). Los niveles de BST en la interrupción de FT (10,1 ± 1,7 mg/dl, 9,9 ± 1 y 8,9 ± 1,8, p = 0,002) y 24 horas después (9,6 ± 1,3 mg/dl, 9,8 ± 1,4 y 9 ± 1,8, p = 0,04) fueron menor en el grupo L40. Conclusiones: El tratamiento con LEDs a 40 µW/cm2/nm reduce en 12 horas la duración del tratamiento en comparación con LEDs o luz azul a 30 µW/cm2/nm.

Introduction: Hyperbilirubinemia (HB) is the main cause of admission to low risk neonatal units. New phototherapy devices (PT) allow the use of high dose of irradiance. Objective: To compare the efficacy of PT in terms of hours of treatment between blue light tubes and LEDs equipments with two levels of irradiance. Material and methods: Prospective controlled trial. Term or near-term infants with need of PT treatment according to AAP recommendations were randomized into three groups: blue lights PT with 30 µW/cm2/nm (BL) or LEDs PT with 30 µW/cm2/nm (L30) or 40 µW/cm2/nm (L40) at skin level. Results: 165 patients were included, 54 in the BL group, 56 in L30 and 55 in L40 group. Birth weight, gestational age, postnatal hours at randomization and total serum bilirubin (TSB) level at entry (18.9 ± 2 mg/dl in BL, 18.9 ± 2.2 in L30 and 19 ± 1.6 in L40) were similar between groups. Total time of PT were 54.4 ± 6.9 hours in BL, 53.4 ± 10.7 in L30 and 41.7 ± 6 in L40 (p <0.001). TSB levels at PT discontinuation (10.1 ± 1.7 mg/dl, 9.9 ± 1 and 8.9 ± 1.8, p = 0.002) and 24 hours later (9.6 ± 1.3 mg/dl, 9.8 ± 1.4 and 9 ± 1.8, p = 0.04) were lower in L40 group.Conclusions: PT treatment with LEDs at µW/cm2/nm reduced the duration of treatment in 12 hours compared with BL or LEDs at 30 µW/cm2/nm.

Acompanhamento sistematizado da hiperbilirrubinemia em recém-nascidos com 35 a 37 semanas de idade gestacional / Systematic follow-up of hyperbilirubinemia in neonates with a gestational age of 35 to 37 weeks

OBJETIVOS: Identificar os resultados do acompanhamento da bilirrubinemia na primeira semana de vida em uma coorte de recém-nascidos (RNs) de 35(0/7) a 37(6/7) semanas de idade gestacional e estabelecer fatores de risco para reinternação para fototerapia pós-alta hospitalar (bilirrubinemia total > 18 mg/dL). MÉTODOS: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo em hospital público universitário. Os recém-nascidos tiveram acompanhamento da bilirrubina total plasmática ou transcutânea pré- e pós-alta da enfermaria de alojamento conjunto para avaliação da necessidade de fototerapia. Foi empregada uma abordagem sistematizada, utilizando-se os percentis de risco de uma curva de referência. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 392 RNs. Uma consulta ambulatorial foi necessária em 61,7 por cento dos RNs. Tiveram valores máximos de bilirrubinemia total > 20 mg/dL 34 RNs (8,7 por cento), e três RNs (0,8 por cento) apresentaram bilirrubinemia total entre 25-30 mg/dL. Fototerapia foi indicada após alta em 74 RNs (18,9 por cento). Os fatores de risco foram a perda de peso do nascimento até o primeiro retorno e os percentis à alta acima do P40. A bilirrubinemia total à alta acima do P95 foi associada ao maior risco de reinternação [RR = 49,5 (6,6-370,3)]. A perda de peso até o primeiro retorno foi o único preditor clínico independente [RR = 1,16 (1,04-1,17)]. CONCLUSÃO: A abordagem sistematizada da bilirrubinemia na 1ª semana foi efetiva na prevenção de hiperbilirrubinemias perigosas. O suporte à amamentação e a alta hospitalar após a estabilização da perda de peso podem ser medidas preventivas da reinternação por hiperbilirrubinemia.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the outcomes of an intervention for follow-up of bilirubinemia in the first week of life in a cohort of newborn infants with gestational ages between 35(0/7) and 37(6/7) weeks and to determine risk factors for readmission for phototherapy (total bilirubin > 18 mg/dL). METHODS: Retrospective cohort study carried out at a public teaching hospital. Neonates underwent periodic monitoring of total bilirubin levels (measured in serum or by transcutaneous device) before and after discharge to assess the need for phototherapy. A systematic approach, based on risk percentiles of a bilirubin reference curve, was employed. RESULTS: The study sample comprised 392 neonates. Only one outpatient visit was required in 61.7 percent of newborns. Peak total bilirubin was > 20 mg/dL in 34 neonates (8.7 percent), and reached 25-30 mg/dL in three (0.8 percent). Phototherapy was indicated after discharge in 74 neonates (18.9 percent). Weight loss between birth and first follow-up visit and total bilirubin above the 40th percentile at discharge were risk factors for requiring phototherapy. Total bilirubin above the 95th percentile at discharge was associated with greater risk of readmission (RR = 49.5 [6.6-370.3]). Weight loss between discharge and first follow-up visit was the sole independent clinical predictor (RR = 1.16 [1.04-1.17]). CONCLUSION: Systematic follow-up during the first week of life was effective in preventing dangerous hyperbilirubinemia. Encouraging breastfeeding and discharging neonates only after weight loss has been stabilized may prevent readmission due to hyperbilirubinemia.

Effect of induction of meconium evacuation using per rectal laxatives on neonatal hyperbilirubinemia in term infants: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Objective: To study the efficacy of early meconium evacuation using per rectal laxatives on the level of serum bilirubin and the need for phototherapy in healthy term infants. Materials and Methods: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials comparing per rectal laxatives versus no intervention was conducted using English language articles identified from the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline, Ovid, and CINAHL databases and bibliographies of selected articles. Eligible studies were assessed for the risk of bias in conduct and reporting. Results: A total of three trials (n = 469) mostly with "unclear risk" were eligible for inclusion. Two trials used glycerin suppository whereas one used glycerin enema for meconium evacuation. Meta-analysis was not possible due to clinical heterogeneity in the choice of laxatives and frequency of intervention. In all the three studies, serum bilirubin levels at 48 h and the need for phototherapy was not significantly different between the two groups. Passage of first meconium and the transitional stools occurred significantly early in the intervention group compared to controls. Conclusion: Early evacuation of meconium using per rectal laxatives does not offer any significant clinical advantage for neonatal jaundice.

Comparison of two phototherapy methods [prophylactic vs therapeutic] for management of hyperbilirubinemia in very low birth weight newborns

Preterm and low birth weight [LEW] infants are at greater risk of developing bilirubin-associated brain damage compared with term infants. Certainly, phototherapy, if used appropriately, is capable of controlling the bilirubin levels in LBW infants; but there is not a unique phototherapy treatment strategy in LBW infants. This study was designed to compare the prophylactic phototherapy and late treatment of jaundiced newborns weighing 1000-1500 grams. Sixty newborns with birth weight 1000-1500 g were studied. They were divided into two groups: the [Prophylactic] group, in which phototherapy started within six hours after birth and continued for at least 96 hours, and the [Treatment] group, which received phototherapy when indicated according to birth weight and suspended when bilirubin level fell below 50% of bilirubin level for blood exchange. Mean value of daily transcutaneous bilirubin [TCB], duration of phototherapy, the need for blood exchange, and the highest TCB value in both groups were analyzed. In the prophylactic group, the highest daily mean rate of TCB was 7.71 +/- 1.84 mg/dl, which happened on the third day. In the treatment group, it was 8.74 +/- 1.72 mg/dl on the fourth day after birth. The TCB values in prophylactic group were significantly less than those of the treatment group only on the fourth and fifth days after birth [P<0.001]. Although the median duration of phototherapy in the treatment group was shorter than that of the prophylactic group [137.60 +/- 57.39 vs 168.71 +/- 88.01 hours, respectively], this difference was not statistically significant. Only one neonate needed blood exchange in the treatment group. The prophylactic phototherapy treatment for babies weighing 1000-1500 g significantly decreases bilirubin levels on the fourth and fifth days after birth but the clinical course of hyperbilirubinemia does not alter in LBW infant, as indicated by the non-significant change in the duration of phototherapy

Irradiance of phototherapy equipment in maternity wards in Maceió / La irradiación de los aparatos de fototerapia en las maternidades de Maceió / Irradiância dos aparelhos de fototerapia nas maternidades de Maceió

The effectiveness of neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia treatment depends directly on the amount of energy emitted by light (irradiance). This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the irradiance of phototherapy equipment in maternity wards in Maceió, AL, Brazil. All equipment in use in the neonatal units in Maceió was included in the study, totaling 36 devices, except those in maintenance. The measurement of irradiance was carried out with a radiometer. We observed that 72.20 percent of the equipment presented efficient irradiance and 27.76 percent were inefficient. The conclusion is that the majority of phototherapy devices are emitting the minimum required irradiance for neonatal jaundice treatment.

La eficacia del tratamiento de la hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal depende directamente de la cantidad de energía emitida por la luz (irradiación). Este es un estudio transversal que objetivó determinar la irradiación de los aparatos de fototerapia en las maternidades de Maceió. Es un muestreo por censo, ya que incluyó todos los aparatos en uso en las unidades neonatales de Maceió, en el total de treinta y seis aparatos (36), excluyéndose aquellos que estaban en manutención. La medición de la irradiación fue realizada con un radiómetro. Se observó que 72,20 por ciento de los aparatos presentaron irradiación eficaz y 27,76 por ciento de los aparatos fueron ineficaces. Se concluye que la mayoría de los aparatos de fototerapia está emitiendo la irradiación mínima terapéutica para el tratamiento de la ictericia neonatal.

A eficácia do tratamento da hiperbilirrubinemia neonatal está na dependência direta da quantidade de energia emitida pela luz (irradiância). Este é um estudo transversal que objetivou determinar a irradiância dos aparelhos de fototerapia nas maternidades de Maceió. A amostragem foi censitária, pois incluiu todos os aparelhos em uso nas unidades neonatais de Maceió, no total de trinta e seis aparelhos (36), excluindo-se aqueles que estavam em manutenção. A medição da irradiância foi realizada com um radiômetro. Observou-se que 72,20 por cento dos aparelhos apresentaram eficácia quanto à sua irradiância e 27,76 por cento dos aparelhos foram ineficazes. Concluiu-se que a maioria dos aparelhos de fototerapia está emitindo a irradiância mínima terapêutica para o tratamento da icterícia neonatal.

Fototerapia simples versus dupla no tratamento de recém-nascidos a termo com hiperbilirrubinemia não-hemolítica / Single vs. double phototherapy in the treatment of full-term newborns with nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia

OBJETIVO: Comparar a eficácia da fototerapia simples (1 painel) versus dupla (2 painéis) na redução da hiperbilirrubinemia não-hemolítica em recém-nascidos a termo. MÉTODOS: Os recém-nascidos a termo foram randomizados prospectivamente para receber fototerapia simples ou dupla. Os níveis de bilirrubina foram medidos no momento da internação e em intervalos de 12 horas, assim como em seguimento 48 horas após a alta. RESULTADOS: Trinta e sete pacientes receberam fototerapia simples, e 40, dupla. A redução média dos níveis de bilirrubina nas primeiras 24 horas de tratamento foi maior no grupo que recebeu fototerapia dupla (5,1±2,2 mg/dL versus 4,3±2,1 mg/dL), porém sem significância estatística (p = 0,18). As taxas de readmissão foram similares e nenhum dos grupos apresentou efeitos adversos. CONCLUSÃO: A fototerapia dupla não foi mais eficaz do que a fototerapia simples no tratamento da hiperbilirrubinemia não-hemolítica em recém-nascidos a termo. Entretanto, nossos resultados sugerem que a fototerapia dupla possa ser mais eficaz em recém-nascidos a termo com níveis de bilirrubina mais altos no momento da internação.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the effectiveness of single (1 panel) vs. double (2 panels) phototherapy in reducing nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia in term newborns. METHODS: Term newborns with hyperbilirubinemia were prospectively randomized to receive double or single phototherapy. Bilirubin levels were measured at admission and at 12-hour intervals, as well as at a follow-up 48 hours after discharge. RESULTS: Thirty-seven patients received single and 40 double phototherapy. The mean decrease in bilirubin level in the first 24 hours of treatment was greater in the double phototherapy group (5.1±2.2 mg/dL vs. 4.3±2.1 mg/dL), but without statistical significance (p = 0.18). Readmission rates were similar and no adverse effects were found in either group. CONCLUSIONS: Double-surface was not more effective than single-surface phototherapy in the treatment of nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia in term newborns. However, our results suggest that double phototherapy may be more effective in those term newborns with higher bilirubin levels at admission.

The effect of clofibrate with phototherapy in late pre-term newborns with non-hemolytic jaundice.

Background : Despite an understanding of the enzymatic pathways leading to bilirubin production and degradation, very few pharmacologic interventions are utilized and the mainstay of treatment remains phototherapy. Aims : To evaluate the efficacy of clofibrate in reducing total serum bilirubin levels in late pre-term neonates with non-hemolytic jaundice. Design and Setting : Double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial; tertiary level neonatal unit. Materials and Methods : A randomized controlled study was carried out in the neonatal ward of Children's Hospital, Tabriz, Iran, over a 1-year period. Sixty-eight healthy late pre-term infants readmitted with non-hemolytic hyperbilirubinemia were randomized to receive phototherapy and clofibrate (n= 35) or phototherapy and placebo (n= 33). Statistical Analysis Used : Chi-square test and independent sample 't' test. Results : There were no significant differences in the weight, gender, modes of delivery and age of neonates between the two groups. Similarly the mean total serum bilirubin (TSB) level at the time of admission was not significantly different between the two groups [mean± SD: 19.72 ± 1.79 (95% confidence interval: 19.12-20.54 mg/dL) vs. 20.05 ± 2.82 (95% confidence interval, 19.54-22.04 mg/dL), P= 0.57]. The mean TSB 48 hours after phototherapy [mean± SD: 8.06± 1.34 (95% confidence interval: 7.94-10.18 mg/dL) vs.10.94 ± 2.87 (95% confidence interval: 9.92-12.16 mg/dL), P= 0.02] and the mean duration of phototherapy [mean± SD: 64.32 ± 12.48 (95% confidence interval: 60-81.6 hours) vs. 87.84 ± 29.76 (95% confidence interval: 79.2-108 hours), P< 0.001] were significantly lower in the clofibrate-treated group. Conclusions : Clofibrate is an effective adjunctive drug in neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, which results in decreased TSB level and reduced duration of phototherapy in late pre-term newborns.

Transcutaneous bilirubinometry in preterm neonates.

This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the accuracy of transcutaneous bilirubinometry in preterm newborns less than 32 weeks of gestation. Serum bilirubin values measured by direct spectrophotometry were considered as standard, the range was 2.2-12.5 mg/dL. 32 jaundiced infants of less than 32 weeks of gestation without phototherapy, including 10 ELBW neonates, were enrolled. Close correlation (R=0.933) existed between total serum bilirubin and transcutaneous bilirubin values measured over sternum.

Adverse events associated with neonatal exchange transfusion for hyperbilirubinemia.

OBJECTIVE: The main purpose of hyperbillirubin treatment is to prevent high billirubin concentration that may cause Kernicterus. We conducted this study to estimate the incidence of blood exchange and determine causes and complication of blood exchange and identify strategies for risk reduction of Kernicterus in newborn with jaundice. METHODS: From march 2004 to march 2006 in neonatal Department in children hospital, medical center Tehran, Iran, 346 neonates were admitted as neinatal jaundice without sign and symptoms of infections. We identified causes and complications of exchange. data processing and analysis was conducted by SPSS versions 11.5. RESULTS: Of 346 infants with jaundice who received phototherapy. 50, 14.45 percent cases underwent exchange transfusion with mean age 9.38+5.75 days. The mean total Serum billirubin level was 29.39+6.13mg/dl. ABO incompatibility was the most common cause for hyperbillirubinemia.the incidence of apnea was 12% there was no direct death frmo exchange transfusion. CONCLUSION: To make payment women aware to cbserve jaundice regularly after birth of their child and short breast feeding to control dehydretion.

Effectiveness of double-surface intensive phototherapy versus single-surface intensive phototherapy for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy and adverse effects of double-surface intensive phototherapy (DsIPT) and single-surface intensive phototherapy (SsIPT) in term newborn infants with hyperbilirubinemia. DESIGN: Prospective randomized controlled trial. MATERIAL AND METHOD: Healthy full-term infants with nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia (total serum bilirubin between 13.0 to 19.9 mg/dl) were allocated randomly to two modes of phototherapy. Group 1 infants received single-surface intensive phototherapy. Group 2 infants received double-surface intensive phototherapy Serum bilirubin, body weight, body temperature and number of defecation were measured at 24 and 48 hours after phototherapy. RESULTS: Sixty infants were studied, 30 in each group. Baseline characteristics were similar in both groups. The initial mean serum bilirubin had no statistically significant difference between SsIPT and the DsIPT groups. After 24 and 48 hours of phototherapy, mean serum bilirubin in the group receiving SsIPT declined 3.5 +/- 1.7 and 6.5 +/- 2.3 mg/dl, while in the DsIPT group, the mean serum bilirubin declined 5.4 +/- 2.0 and 8.4 +/- 2.1 mg/dl respectively. The mean body temperature after 24 hours of phototherapy in the DsIPT group was higher than SsIPT group significantly. The number of defecation in the SsIPT group increased significantly after 24 and 48 hours of phototherapy, but the body weight change in both groups was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION: DsIPT was significantly more effective in reducing serum bilirubin than SsIPT in the term jaundiced infants after 24 and 48 hours of treatment. The adverse effect of DsIPT found in the present study was the increased of body temperature after 24 hours of phototherapy.

Effect of clofibrate in non-hemolytic indirect hyperbiliru-binemia in full term neonates.

OBJECTIVE: Jaundice is a common clinical problem in neonatal period which may result in brain damage even in healthy full term newborns, when it is severe. The aim of this study was to characterize the therapeutic effect of clofibrate in full term neonates who present with nonhemolytic jaundice. METHODS: A clinical controlled study was performed on 60 full term neonates who presented with non- hemolytic jaundice. 30 neonates were treated with a single oral dose of clofibrate (100 mg/Kg) plus phototherapy (case group), while 30 neonates received only phototherapy (control group). Both groups were compared in regard to post therapeutic mean total and indirect plasma bilirubin levels, admission duration and the rate of exchange transfusion. RESULTS: The reduction rate of total and indirect plasma bilirubin levels were significantly higher in the clofibrate- treated group as compared with the control group (P< 0.05). The mean duration of admission was found to be reduced from 2.9 +/- 0.9 days in the control groupl to 2.2 +/- 0.6 days in clofibrate- treated group (P=0.002). The mean plasma total bilirubin level was lower in the clofibrate- treated group. No cases required phototherapy after 48 hour in clofibrate- treated group, while 9 neonates (30%) and 2 neonates (6.7%) required phototherapy after 72 hour and 96 hour respectively in the control group. There was no difference between both the groups for sex, the time of developing jaundice and the rate of exchange transfusion. CONCLUSION: A single dose of clofibrate (100 mg/Kg) along with phototherapy is more effective than phototherapy alone in treating non-hemolytic hyperbilirubinemia in term healthy newborn infants.

Avaliação da eficácia clínica de uma nova modalidade de fototerapia utilizando diodos emissores de luz / Efficacy of new microprocessed phototherapy system with five high intensity light emitting diodes (Super LED)

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a eficácia terapêutica de um sistema de fototerapia microprocessada que utiliza diodos emissores de luz (Super LED) de alta intensidade no tratamento da hiperbilirrubinemia em recém-nascidos prematuros. MÉTODOS: Ensaio clínico, randomizado e controlado, utilizando a fototerapia Super LED no grupo experimental e duas fototerapias halógenas no grupo controle. A randomização foi realizada em blocos e estratificada por peso de nascimento. A duração da fototerapia e a queda nos níveis séricos de bilirrubina total nas primeiras 24 horas de tratamento foram os principais desfechos analisados. RESULTADOS: Foram estudados 88 recém-nascidos, 44 no grupo da fototerapia Super LED e 44 no grupo da fototerapia halógena. As características demográficas da população foram semelhantes nos dois grupos. O nível sérico médio inicial de bilirrubina no grupo do Super LED (10,1±2,4 mg por cento) foi semelhante ao do grupo que recebeu fototerapia halógena (10,9±2,0 mg por cento). A queda percentual na concentração sérica de bilirrubina total nas primeiras 24 horas de tratamento foi significativamente maior (27,9 versus 10,7 por cento, p < 0,01), e a duração do tratamento foi significativamente menor (36,8 versus 63,8 h, p < 0,01) no grupo do Super LED do que no grupo que recebeu fototerapia halógena. Após 24 horas de tratamento, um número significativamente maior de recém-nascidos recebendo fototerapia Super LED atingiu níveis de bilirrubina que permitiram a suspensão da fototerapia (23 versus 10, p < 0,01). CONCLUSÕES: Os resultados demonstram que a eficácia da fototerapia Super LED é significativamente maior do que a da fototerapia halógena no tratamento da hiperbilirrubinemia de recém-nascidos prematuros.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the efficacy of a microprocessed phototherapy (PT) system with five high intensity light emitting diodes (Super LED) for the treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia of premature infants. METHODS: Randomized clinical trial using Super LED phototherapy in the study group and twin halogen spotlight phototherapy in the control group. A stratified blocked randomization, based on birth weight, was performed. The duration of phototherapy and the rate of decrease of total serum bilirubin (TSB) concentration in the first 24 hours of treatment were the main outcome measures. RESULTS: We studied 88 infants, 44 in the Super LED group and 44 in the halogen spotlight PT group. The demographic characteristics of the patients in both groups were similar. Infants in the Super LED group had a similar mean initial serum bilirubin level (10.1±2.4 mg percent) to those receiving halogen spotlight treatment (10.9±2.0 mg percent). After 24 hours of treatment, the decrease in total serum bilirubin levels was significantly greater in the Super LED group (27.9 vs. 10.7 percent, p< 0.01) and duration of phototherapy was significantly shorter in this group (36.8 h vs. 63.8 h, p < 0.01). After 24 hours of treatment, a significantly greater number of patients receiving Super LED phototherapy had reached serum bilirubin concentrations low enough to allow withdrawal of treatment (23 vs. 10, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: Our results demonstrate that the efficacy of Super LED phototherapy for treating hyperbilirubinemia in premature infants was significantly better than halogen phototherapy.

Correlación entre bilirrubina sérica y bilirrubinometría transcutánea en neonatos estratificados por edad gestacional / Correlation between serum bilirubin and transcutaneus bilirubinometry in newborns stratified by gestation age

La ictericia neonatal es un dilema diagnóstico y terapéutico muy común. Las decisiones basadas en mediciones seriadas de bilirrubina sérica se asocian con dolor en el niño, tiempo de espera y ansiedad por los resultados. La bilirrubinometría transcutánea puede ser una alternativa confiable si se demuestra su validez para poblaciones e instituciones particulares. Establecer el grado de correlación entre bilirrubina sérica total (BST) y bilirrubina transcutánea (BTC) en neonatos estratificados por edad gestacional. Estudio de diseño transversal. Cien recién nacidos ictéricos, 50 de término y 50 pretérmino, fueron analizados. A cada niño se le realizó una medición simultánea de BST y BTC. Luego se calcularon los coeficientes de variación de las medias, las diferencias de las medidas, la sensibilidad y el valor predictivo positivo de la BTC, los coeficientes de correlación, la ecuación de la línea de regresión, y la equivalencia de ambas mediciones para predecir el riesgo de hiperbilirrubinemia. El coeficiente de variación de las medias fue similar para ambas mediciones (BST: 3,09 por ciento; BTC: 3,24 por ciento). Las mediciones de BST y BTC fueron diferentes en 95 niños, e iguales en 5 de ellos. En los 95 neonatos con lecturas divergentes, la BTC subestimó la BST en 59 y la sobreestimó en 36, con una diferencia promedio de 1,39 mg/dl (DE 0,58 mg/dl). La sensibilidad de la BTC para identificar una BST >12 mg/dl fue 87 por ciento, con un valor predictivo positivo de 94 por ciento. El coeficiente de correlación de toda la muestra fue 0,88; en los neonatos de término fue 0,92 y en los pretérmino fue 0,84. El 82 por ciento de los neonatos fueron correctamente clasificados por la BTC en los percentiles de riesgo para hiperbilirrubinemia significativa. La precisión de las medidas de BST y BTC es similar en nuestra institución. Aunque hay una correlación aceptable entre ambos métodos de valoración, independientemente de la edad gestacional, la técnica de la BTC...

Newborn jaundice with its potential for producing brain damage remains a continuing problem for pediatricians. Therapeutic decisions based on serial measurements of serum bilirubin (TSB) are time-consuming and associated with stress for the child, parents and practitioners. Transcutaneous bilirubinometry (TCB) may be an alternative method if its reliability is proven for a particular institution and population. To establish the degree of correlation between TSB and TCB in newborn infants classified by gestational age. Cross-sectional study. 100 jaundiced infants, stratified into two groups of 50 preterm and 50 full-term newborns, were analyzed by simultaneous samples of TSB and TCB. Statistical analysis included estimates of differences between the two measurements, coefficients of variation of means, correlation coefficients, sensitivity and positive predictive value of TCB, and accuracy of TCB to predict significant hyperbilirubinemia. The coefficient of variation of means was similar for both methods (TSB: 3.09 percent; TCB: 3.24 percent). Measurements of TSB and TCB were different in 95 infants and equivalent in 5. TCB underestimated TSB in 59 measurements and overestimated it in 36 of them, with a mean difference of 1.39 mg/dl (SD 0.58 mg/dl). Sensitivity of TCB to identify a TSB >12 mg/dl was 87 percent, with a positive predictive value of 94 percent. The global correlation coefficient was 0.88 (term infants: 0.92; preterm infants: 0.84). 82 percent of the infants were correctly classified by the TCB within the percentiles of risk for significant hyperbilirubinemia. Precision of measurements of TSB and TCB is similar in our institution. Despite a good correlation between the two methods, regardless the gestational age, TCB tends to underestimate TSB when bilirubin values go beyond 12 mg/dl. The TCB technique can accurately predict the risk of extreme hyperbilirubinemia, so it can be cautiously used prior to dischange to reduce this risk and to avoid...

Effect of feeding type on the efficacy of phototherapy.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of phototherapy for nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia and rebound bilirubin levels in breast-fed newborns as compared with mixed-fed (breast milk and formula) newborns. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Prospective study of effects of feeding type on response to phototherapy in newborns. METHODS: The subjects were 53 full-term healthy newborns with nonhemolytic hyperbilirubinemia [defined as total serum bilirubin 12 mg/dL (205.2 micromol/L) in the first 48 hours of life or 15 mg/dl (256.5 micromol/L), on subsequent days]. Groups were formed according to type of feeding. Group 1 consisted of 28 breast-fed newborns and group 2 consisted of 25 mixed-fed newborns. Phototherapy was terminated when total serum bilirubin concentration fell to 14 mg/dL (< 239.4 micromol/L). Rebound bilirubin measurements were obtained 24 hours after phototherapy ended. RESULTS: The groups were comparable with respect to age at the start of phototherapy. The amount of weight loss (relative to birth weight) recorded at the start of phototherapy was significantly greater in group 1 than in group 2 (8.1+/- 3.9% vs. 5.4+/- 2.6% p = 0.004). The duration of phototherapy was significantly longer in group 1 than in group 2 (38.6+/- 12.6 h vs. 26.8+/- 9.4 h; P < 0.001). The 24-hour rate of decrease in bilirubin concentration in group 2 was significantly higher than that in group 1 [5.4+/- 2.2 mg/dL/d (92.3+/-37.6 micromol/L/d) vs. 4+/- 1.3 mg/dL/d (68.4+/- 22.2 micromol/L/d); p = 0.01]. The overall rate of decrease in bilirubin concentration in group 1 was significantly lower than that in group 2 [0.16+/- 0.05 mg/dL/h (2.73+/- 0.85 micromol/L/h) vs. 0.22+/- 0.09 mg/dL/h (3.76+/- 1.53 micromol/L/h); p = 0.01]. There was no significant difference between the two groups with respect to rebound bilirubin concentration (P = 0.184). Conclusion: Phototherapy effectively reduced bilirubin levels in breastfed newborns with hyperbilirubinemia, but these patients show significantly slower response to this treatment than mixed-fed newborns.