Abstract:

Introduction: When bilirubin attains high levels, it can lead to different degrees of brain damage. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the neurodevelopment status of term newborns treated for hyperbilirubinemia in the neonatal period. Methods: The study group consisted of 48 children with total bilirubin >22 mg/dL in the neonatal period. The study group was compared with 50 healthy children determined as the control group. Detailed physical examination of all the children was performed and anthropometric measurements were taken. Previous hospitalisation data of the study group were examined, and the socio-demographic data of the parents were also obtained. All the children underwent neurodevelopmental screening with the Denver II Developmental Screening test (DDST). Results: No statistically significant difference was found between the hyperbilirubinaemia group and control group in terms of the male/female ratio, age, weight, height, body mass index and prophylactic iron use. Maternal and paternal demographic data were compared, and there was no significant difference. The general results of the DDST were compared, and significant neurodevelopmental retardation was found in the study group (p<0.001). For both groups, the DDST development areas were compared; language development (p<0.001) and fine motor development (p=0.046) were delayed in the study group. In the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the risk of developmental retardation was found to be higher in newborns with bilirubin values greater than 23.5 mg/dL (p=0.009). Conclusion: Significant hyperbilirubinaemia is an important risk factor for the retarded child development. Therefore, developmental screening tests should be performed at regular intervals for the early detection of developmental delays and to start the appropriate treatment.

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