Physiological vs pathological neonatal jaundice
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Teaching point — how the wording changes the answer
Physiological jaundice appears on days 2-4, peaks ~day 5 and resolves in 1-2 weeks. Jaundice within the first 24 hours, rapid rise (>85 micromol/L/day), or conjugated/obstructive features (pale stool, dark urine) is pathological.
Q57
Neonate with yellow skin appearing within the first week of life; diagnosis?
Key clue
Onset days 2-4, not within 24h
Show answer
Physiological jaundice (pathological if within first 24h or conjugated)