Transcutaneous bilirubin measurement to estimate serum bilirubin in neonates in a multi-ethnic cohort: a literature review

Abstract

Neonatal jaundice (NNJ) is common in Singapore and is usually monitored with serum bilirubin (SB). This paper reviews literature on the accuracy of transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement compared to SB to monitor jaundice in neonates of major ethnic groups of Singapore, i.e. Chinese, Malay, and Indian. 15 studies with Chinese babies, 5 with Malay babies, and 15 with Indian babies were identified (total of 28 articles, some with more than one race). Correlation coefficient is good for all three races. Chest is a better site for TcB measurement than forehead, though both are good. Infants with TcB levels more than 160–200 μmol/L should have SB checked. While post-phototherapy infants may benefit from TcB 24 hours after cessation of phototherapy, more needs to be done to ascertain its usefulness. Premature babies should have SB measurements. TcB measurement is suitable to monitor NNJ in term and healthy Chinese, Malay, and Indian babies.