Using a spectral reflectance technique to measure transcutaneous bilirubin in neonates: a new device.

Devices that use a spectral reflectance technique are used to non-invasively measure total bilirubin levels in neonates to monitor the development of hyperbilirubinemia. As a screening technique for the healthy neonate population, these devices provide instantaneous information, may reduce the need of heel-pricks on neonates, and indicate which neonates will need serum bilirubin measurement. Evidence from studies supported by the manufacturer of BiliChek (tm), the newest device using the spectral reflectance technique, suggests that there is a linear correlation between transcutaneous bilirubin measured by BiliChek (tm) and total serum bilirubin as measured by the gold standard technique (i.e. HPLC). The correlation, however, is limited by gestational age of the neonate, as well as certain pathological neonatal conditions. Prospective cohort studies on the effectiveness of the technology in the reduction of hospital readmission, and using the incidence of morbidity and mortality from kernicterus as clinical endpoints, would be useful.