Risk Factors of Neonatal Jaundice at Al Kadhimiya Pediatrics Hospital in Baghdad, Iraq

Abstract

Jaundice is the most common condition that requires medical attention in newborns. Jaundice is observed during the 1st wk after birth in approximately 60% of term infants and 80% of preterm infants. Early identification of neonates at great risk of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia is of paramount importance in preventing brain damage.Objectives: to investigate the prevalence and risk factors associated with neonatal jaundice at Al Kadhimiya pediatrics hospital.Materials and Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted at Al Kadhimiya pediatrics hospital. Data collection took place from 8th February 2015 -10th May 2015. Sample size was (160) neonates who were diagnosed with neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. At date of data gathering, a questionnaire developed by the researchers based on literatures review was completed. Verbal Consent to participate in the study was obtained from all parents. Total serum bilirubin was measured using venous sampling. P value <0.05 was considered significant. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software version 20.Results: 753 neonates were treated for hyperbilirubinemia, the total number of live births was 5589. The incidence of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia was 13.47%. ABO blood group incompatibility was the most common cause of hyperbilirubinemia.Sample size was 160 (N=160).All of the sample were diagnosed and admitted as neonatal hyperblirubinemia cases. Mean total serum bilirubin level on admission was (15.4±3.6 mg/dl).mean neonatal age in days was (6.2±3.6 days).83(51.9%)of the causes of neonatal jaundice were of unknown etiological factors. Sepsis and ABO incompatibility were the reason for neonatal jaundice in 37(23.1) of the cases. Conclusion: Lack of diagnostic capabilities in terms of lab resources led to unknown causes of more than half of the admitted neonatal hyperbilirubinemic cases.