Role of Subcutaneous Bilirubinometre in the Evaluation of Bilirubin Level in Neonatal Jaundice

Abstract

Objectives: To record the demographic features of neonates presenting with jaundice, identify their cause, and co-relate bilirubin levels obtained by subcutaneous bilirubinometre with a standard biochemical method.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study

Place and Duration of Study: Nursery of Combined Military Hospital, Malir Cantt Karachi, from Jul to Dec 2020.

Methodology: A total of 100 cases of neonatal jaundice were enrolled using a systematic random sampling technique. The demographic data of enrolled neonates and risk factors for jaundice were recorded. Their bilirubin levels were recorded using transcutaneous bilirubinometre (TCB) JH-2. Serum bilirubin levels were analyzed at the same time and recorded.

Results: Out of 100 neonates, 61(61 %) were male. Risk factors for jaundice included exaggerated physiological 70(70%), prematurity 11(11%), Rh incompatibility 9(9%), G6PD deficiency 5(5%). For all weight ranges, mean TCB values significantly correlated with mean serum bilirubin level (p-value <0.001) with a co-relation coefficient of 0.683 and device reliability of 74%.

Conclusion: Transcutaneous bilirubinometre can be considered a reliable tool to assess bilirubin for screening neonatal jaundice in term and pre-term neonates.