Which of the following features best characterizes physiological jaundice of the newborn?
- A Visible jaundice within the first 24 hours of life
- B Conjugated fraction greater than 20% of total bilirubin
- C Peak serum bilirubin not exceeding 12 mg/dL in term infants, appearing after 24 hours and clearing by two weeks ✓
- D Rate of rise of bilirubin exceeding 5 mg/dL per day
Correct answer: C. Peak serum bilirubin not exceeding 12 mg/dL in term infants, appearing after 24 hours and clearing by two weeks
Explanation
Physiological jaundice appears after 24 hours, peaks between days 3 and 5 at levels generally below 12 mg/dL in term infants, and resolves by about two weeks. Jaundice in the first 24 hours, a rate of rise over 5 mg/dL per day, a conjugated fraction exceeding 2 mg/dL or 20% of total, and persistence beyond two weeks all define pathological jaundice requiring evaluation.
Reference: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics, 21st ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.