Hi dear drs my newborn baby is 22 days age, it's skin is yellow, today dr did a test bilirubin total is 7.0, bilirubin dir. is 1.7 and bilirubin indir.. is 5.3. is this normal or does it require treatment. the dr didn't prescribed medicine. thanks?

Total bilirubin level 0f 7.0 with direct 1.7 mg/dl in 3-week-old infant is abnormal. Treatment is dependent upon the cause (s). Biliary atresia, neonatal hepatitis, other conditions leading to cholestasis are among the list of possibilities.

If you are nursing, jaundice may associated after two weeks of age. Keep your baby well hydrated and nourished. You should stay well hydrated. A recheck of the value if there is concern may be arranged. Otherwise, continue to nurse and maintain good growth and nutrition. Usually nursing related jaundice self resolves. Discuss the results w PCP.. Watch for signs of worsening jaundice, vomiting.