Hyperbilirubinemia in the Term Infant: Re-evaluating What We Think We Know

Abstract

This article attempts to highlight contemporary issues relating to term neonatal hyperbilirubinemia and to focus attention on controversial issues and concepts with the potential to effect change in clinical approach. On the one hand, the focus is bilirubin neurotoxicity, which is now known to encompass a wide, diverse spectrum of features. The various aspects of this spectrum are outlined and defined. On the other hand, bilirubin also possesses antioxidant properties. As such, mild hyperbilirubinemia is suggested as actually offering the neonate some protective advantage.

Keywords: Bilirubin; Hyperbilirubinemia; Neurologic damage; Term infant.