Comparison of the efficiency of conventional white light and blue light in neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia

Abstract Background: Phototherapy seems to be the most useful therapy for jaundice. Objective: To compare the efficiency of conventional white light (Day light) and blue light in lowering of high blood level of bilirubin in neonates with hyperbilirubinemia. Methods: Neonates suffering from jaundice, who were admitted in Amir Al-Momenin hospital of Semnan university from May to Sep. 1998 were randomly divided into two groups. Patients in group one were put under blue light and the other group under conventional white light. Blood sample (2cc) was taken before therapy and 12hr and 24hr after phototherapy. Total and direct bilirubin blood levels were measured using standard laboratory procedures. Findings: The data indicated that total and direct bilirubin blood levels at 12hr and 24hr after phototherapy was significantly lower than those of pretreatment levels (P<0.01). There was no significant difference between direct bilirubin levels at 12hr and 24hr posttreatment among groups, but total bilirubin levels of blue light treatment group was significantly more than white light treatment group (P<0.01). Conclusion: Both white light and blue light are effective in lowering the levels of bilirubin in neonates. Therefore, each light alone or a combination of both lights can be used for treatment of neonatal jaundice.