Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns causing yellowing of the skin and eyes due to excess bilirubin in the blood. It can be caused by various factors, including immature liver function and certain medical conditions. While often harmless, severe cases can lead to complications.
Red Blood Cells
Jaundice (Hyperbilirubinemia)
Jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, is caused by hyperbilirubinemia, an abnormally high level of bilirubin in the blood. It can be a symptom of various liver or biliary tract diseases.
Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder causing reduced hemoglobin production. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and jaundice. Treatment involves blood transfusions, iron chelation, and bone marrow transplants.
Fanconi Anemia
Fanconi anemia, a rare genetic disorder, causes bone marrow failure and increases cancer risk. Learn about symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Neonatal Jaundice (High Bilirubin Levels in Newborns)
Neonatal jaundice is a common condition in newborns causing yellowing of the skin and eyes due to excess bilirubin in the blood. It can be caused by various factors, including immature liver function and certain medical conditions. While often harmless, severe cases can lead to complications.
Thalassemia
Thalassemia is an inherited blood disorder causing reduced hemoglobin production. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, and jaundice. Treatment involves blood transfusions, iron chelation, and bone marrow transplants.
Folate Deficiency
Folate deficiency, a lack of vitamin B9, can lead to fatigue, weakness, and even birth defects.
Pernicious Anemia
Pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition, disrupts vitamin B12 absorption. This leads to fatigue, nerve problems, and a special type of anemia. Early diagnosis and B12 replacement therapy are key for good health.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
Vitamin B12 keeps the red cells & nerves healthy, but deficiency can lead to fatigue, numbness, and weakness. Early diagnosis is key to prevent complications.
Systemic Approach to Anemia
Systematic anemia diagnosis starts with a detailed history, exam & blood tests. Iron studies, B12/folate levels & other tests pinpoint the cause (iron deficiency, vitamin deficiency, etc.) leading to targeted treatment & improved outcomes.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis
Hereditary hemochromatosis, an inherited disorder, disrupts iron absorption leading to excessive iron buildup in organs like the liver, heart, and pancreas. Early diagnosis through blood tests is crucial to prevent potential complications like cirrhosis, heart failure, and diabetes. Treatment focuses on iron reduction through phlebotomy and may prevent severe health consequences.
Sideroblastic Anemia
Sideroblastic anemia disrupts iron use in red blood cells. Caused by genetic mutations or factors like alcohol abuse, it’s diagnosed by analyzing bone marrow for ring sideroblasts, iron-laden structures.
