Treatment for hemolytic jaundice in newborns includes phototherapy, medication, and exchange transfusion. The primary cause is red blood cell destruction due to maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility. Phototherapy is the preferred method, using blue light to lower bilirubin levels. Medication, such as intravenous immunoglobulin, can block the hemolytic process. In severe cases, exchange transfusion is necessary. Hemolytic jaundice is usually caused by ABO or Rh blood type incompatibility between mother and fetus. When fetal red blood cells enter the mother's body, the mother produces antibodies that attack the fetal red blood cells, leading to hemolysis and elevated bilirubin levels.
1. Phototherapy is the main method for treating hemolytic jaundice in newborns. It involves irradiating the skin with blue light of a specific wavelength to convert bilirubin into a water-soluble substance, making it easier to excrete. Phototherapy equipment includes blue light lamps and blue light blankets. During treatment, care must be taken to protect the infant's eyes and genitals to avoid side effects.
2. Drug therapy is used when phototherapy is ineffective or the condition is severe. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) can block maternal antibodies from attacking fetal red blood cells and reduce hemolysis. Commonly used drugs include human immunoglobulin and albumin, which should be used under the guidance of a doctor, paying attention to dosage and adverse reactions.
3. Exchange transfusion is suitable for severe hemolytic jaundice. It reduces bilirubin levels and antibody concentrations by replacing the infant's blood. Exchange transfusion must be performed in a specialized neonatal intensive care unit, with strict monitoring of the infant's vital signs and prevention of complications such as infection and electrolyte imbalance.
4. The main cause of hemolytic jaundice is maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility. ABO blood type incompatibility is more common when the mother is type O and the infant is type A or B; Rh blood type incompatibility is more common when the mother is Rh negative and the infant is Rh positive. Antibodies produced by the mother cross the placenta into the fetus, causing the destruction of fetal red blood cells and releasing a large amount of bilirubin, resulting in jaundice.
5. The key to preventing hemolytic jaundice is prenatal checkups. Pregnant women with ABO and Rh blood type incompatibility need to have their antibody titers monitored regularly and receive intervention when necessary. Newborns require close observation of jaundice after birth, with timely testing of bilirubin levels. Early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications.
Treatment for hemolytic jaundice in newborns depends on the condition and may involve phototherapy, medication, or exchange transfusion. The main cause is maternal-fetal blood type incompatibility. Prenatal checkups and neonatal monitoring are key to prevention and early detection. Timely intervention can effectively reduce bilirubin levels and avoid serious complications.