What is the common cause of neonatal jaundice?

Neonatal jaundice is primarily caused by high levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is created during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. In newborns, particularly premature ones, the liver is often immature and may not be efficient at processing bilirubin quickly enough, leading to its accumulation in the blood. This can result in jaundice, which presents as yellowing of the skin and eyes.

While other factors can play a role in the overall health of the neonate, such as low birth weight, infections, or maternal drug use, they are not direct causes of jaundice. High bilirubin levels remain the central mechanism behind this condition. Understanding the role of bilirubin metabolism helps highlight why severity and treatment of jaundice focus on reducing bilirubin levels, such as through phototherapy or exchange transfusions if necessary.