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Neonatal jaundice among Nigerian preterm infants
1Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria.
West African Journal of Medicine
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Jaundice is common in Nigerian preterm infants, with prematurity being the primary cause. Promptly treating sepsis is crucial to reduce mortality and prevent kernicterus.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Clinical Pediatrics
Background:
- Jaundice is a frequent complication in preterm infants.
- Significant hyperbilirubinaemia poses risks, including kernicterus.
- Understanding etiological factors in Nigerian preterm infants is essential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of clinical jaundice in Nigerian preterm infants.
- To identify predisposing factors for significant hyperbilirubinaemia.
- To assess the outcomes of jaundiced preterm infants.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 292 preterm infants over 18 months.
- Monitoring for clinical jaundice and measuring serum bilirubin levels.
- Analysis of etiological factors including prematurity, G-6-PD deficiency, and septicaemia.
Main Results:
- Jaundice incidence was 71.2% among preterm infants.
- Prematurity was the main cause (59.5%) of significant hyperbilirubinaemia.
- Septicaemia was linked to higher bilirubin levels and mortality, and kernicterus.
Conclusions:
- Prematurity is the leading cause of jaundice in this cohort.
- Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency alone did not significantly increase hyperbilirubinaemia.
- Early detection and treatment of septicaemia are vital for improving outcomes and preventing kernicterus.