MANAGEMENT OF NEONATAL HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA: PHOTOTHERAPY AND TREATMENT STRATEGIES IN PREMATURE CHILDREN

Abstract

Neonatal jaundice caused by indirect hyperbilirubinemia is common in newborns, especially in premature babies due to increased red blood cell production and immaturity of the liver. Phototherapy, which transforms bilirubin into products that can be eliminated by the body, is the most commonly used treatment. Modern devices such as blue LEDs offer a more effective and less harmful alternative to traditional fluorescent lamps. Studies show that preventive phototherapy can be effective in reducing bilirubin levels, especially in low birth weight premature infants. However, it is important to control light exposure to avoid adverse effects, especially in premature babies, who are more vulnerable. A cycled approach to phototherapy may be promising, offering results similar to continuous therapy but with less light exposure. This could help prevent neurological complications and other problems associated with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.