Hyperbilirubinemia

Hyperbilirubinemia

Hyperbilirubinemia is defined as serum bilirubin concentration > 25 μmol/l. However, clinical presentation (jaundice (icterus) – yellowish colouring of the skin, sclera and mucosa) is apparent in newborns usually around hyperbilirubinemia of 80-100 μmol/l. It is one of the most common clinical and laboratory findings in both term and preterm infants (antenatally, placenta is responsible for…

Congenital anomalies of gastrointestinal tract

Congenital anomalies of gastrointestinal tract

Congenital anomalies of gastrointestinal tract (GIT) can be sometimes detected by the prenatal screening (ultrasound – polyhydramnios, direct visualisation of affected GIT; biochemistry – elevated alpha-fetoprotein in gastroschisis and omphalocele). Postnatal investigations include proper clinical examination (distended abdomen, vomiting with/without bilious aspirates) and imaging techniques (ultrasound, native or contrast radiography). The lower (distal) the obstruction in the…

Acute abdomen

Acute abdomen

Acute abdomen events arise from a number of diseases based on the predominant pathophysiology. They require urgent revision. Basic division of acute abdomen in newborns: congenital gastrointestinal malformations non-inflammatory→ ileus of prematurity (IOP)→ spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP)→ incarceration of inguinal hernia→ testicular torsion (unilateral orchidectomy) inflammatory→ necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)→ peritonitis (usually…