Abstract
The risk of bili-encephalopathy following non-hemolytic H-B in term neonates has not been fully evaluated. Prophylactic Px is frequently used to "protect" neonates from possible sequelae of H-B. We studied the effect of Px on peak bili levels and duration of hospitalisation in 92 neonates with physiologic H-B. Infants were randomised for Px at bili levels (in mg/dl) of 10 (Gp A), 15 (Gp B) or 17.5 (Gp C). Px was continued until bili <10 (Gp A) or <15 (Gps B, C). The results were as follows:
Early Px for bili >10 was associated with fewer bili's of 15-18 (p<.05), but did not significantly shorten hospitalisation and resulted in Px to ± 100% of the group. Late Px may result in "complications". Prophylactic Px for non-hemolytic H-B is arguable, but when used, a threshold of 15 appears appropriate.
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Argent, A., Rothberg, A. & Cooper, P. EFFECT OF PHOTOTHERAPY (Px) AT 3 BILIRUBIN (bili) THRESHOLDS IN TERM NEONATES WITH PHYSIOLOGIC HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA (H-B). Pediatr Res 18 (Suppl 4), 344 (1984). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198404001-01504
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-198404001-01504