A 28-hour-old term neonate presents with jaundice. Total serum bilirubin is 14 mg/dL. Baby is feeding well, examination is normal, and Coombs test is negative. What is the MOST likely diagnosis?
- A ABO incompatibility
- B Physiological jaundice ✓
- C G6PD deficiency
- D Breast milk jaundice
Correct answer: B. Physiological jaundice
Explanation
Physiological jaundice in term neonates typically appears after 24 hours of life, peaks around day 3-5, and resolves by day 10-14. A bilirubin of 14 mg/dL at 28 hours in a term neonate with no hemolytic cause (negative Coombs, no ABO mismatch features) fits physiological jaundice. Jaundice appearing within 24 hours is always pathological. Breast milk jaundice typically appears after day 4-5.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.