Serum Bilirubin and Neonatal Jaundice Outcomes at a Maternity Hospital in Oyo State

Neonatal jaundice is a common clinical finding in newborns worldwide and can progress to severe hyperbilirubinaemia causing kernicterus if not managed promptly. This study assesses serum bilirubin levels and the clinical course of neonatal jaundice in neonates admitted to a maternity hospital in Oyo State, South West Nigeria. A prospective observational design was adopted, enrolling 200 neonates presenting with clinical jaundice within the first week of life. Total and direct bilirubin were measured by the van den Bergh diazonium method. Blood group, Rh factor, and direct Coombs test were performed to identify ABO and Rh incompatibility as underlying causes. Gestational age, birth weight, feeding practices, and mode of delivery were recorded. Severity of jaundice was correlated with maternal and neonatal risk factors including prematurity, infection, and G6PD deficiency. The study aims to characterise the biochemical spectrum of neonatal jaundice and identify risk factors predicting severe hyperbilirubinaemia in this population. Findings will inform clinical protocols for early identification and phototherapy intervention in secondary healthcare facilities in South West Nigeria. Keywords: neonatal jaundice, serum bilirubin, hyperbilirubinaemia, ABO incompatibility, Oyo State.