comparison of transcutaneous and total serum bilirubin in Egyptian neonates

ABSTRACT

Previous studies have suggested that transcutaneous bilirubinometry [TcB] may provide a useful method for screening for significant jaundice, thereby reducing unnecessary blood tests. The present study aimed to evaluate the validity of TcB versus serum bilirubin [TSB] measurements in Egyptian full term babies. Babies born at more than 34 weeks gestation who had not previously been exposed to phototherapy and were requiring blood sampling in the first week of life were inducted in the study. TcB measurements were made at the same time as. SB for 150 neonate [57% males and 43% females]. There was a significant positive correlation between SB and TcB measurements [n = 150, p < 0.0001] and TcB was more accurate in serum bilirubin level more than18mg/dl. Bilirubin can be measured accurately by TcB, but before hospital admission or exchange transfusion, SB should be done. Further studies should be done on neonates with different skin color and preterm babies