Unconjugated free bilirubin in preterm infants

Hyperbilirubinemia guidelines are based on total serum bilirubin (TSB), in combination with either gestational age (GA) or birth weight (BW), postnatal age and specific risk factors. However, TSB is a poor predictor of bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity (BIND). Free unconjugated bilirubin (UCBfree) and the UCBfree/TSB ratio are more directly related to BIND, but data on their postnatal courses are unknown.

Source: Early Human Development - February 5, 2017 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Lori W.E. van der Schoor, Peter H. Dijk, Henkjan J. Verkade, Anna C.J. Kamsma, Andrea B. Schreuder, Henk Groen, Christian V. Hulzebos Source Type: research