Hyperbilirubinemia in the Term Newborn -- American Family Physician

Risk Factors for Hyperbilirubinemia Infants without identified risk factors rarely have total serum bilirubin levels above 12 mg per dL (205 μmol per L). As the number of risk factors increases, the potential to develop markedly elevated bilirubin levels also increases. Common risk factors for hyperbilirubinemia include fetal-maternal blood group incompatibility, prematurity, and a previously affected sibling (Table 1). Cephalohematomas, bruising, and trauma from instrumented delivery may increase the risk for serum bilirubin elevation. Delayed meconium passage also increases the risk. Infants with risk factors should be monitored closely during the first days to weeks of life.