Implementing and validating transcutaneous bilirubinometry for neonates

Abstract

Noninvasive, transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement is an attractive option for neonates, but opinions about its usefulness vary among studies. We collected paired measurements of TcB and serum bilirubin (SB) in 343 term neonates using the BiliCheck meter (SpectRx, Norcross, GA) and 3 different SB methods. Correlations between SB and TcB were similar for all laboratory methods and TcB measurement sites. However, TcB bias varied depending on the comparison SB method and TcB measurement site. TcB bias also varied with race when measurements were done on the forehead but not when they were done on the sternum. Several factors must be considered before implementing TcB measurement: (1) Each laboratory instrument has its own unique relationship to TcB. (2) The chosen measurement site affects the relationship. (3) Race can affect TcB bias when the measurement is taken on the forehead. Properly used, TcB measurement, especially when taken from the sternum, can be a useful screening method for neonatal jaundice.