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Transient familial hyperbilirubinemia - Treatment

Alternative Names

Lucey-Driscol syndrome

Treatment:

Phototherapy with blue light is used to treat the high level of bilirubin. An exchange transfusion is sometimes necessary.

Expectations (prognosis):

Babies who are treated can have a good outcome. If the condition is not treated, severe complications develop. This disorder tends to improve with time.

Complications:

Death or severe brain and nervous system (neurological) problems can occur if the condition is not treated.

Calling your health care provider:

Although this problem is usually found immediately after delivery, call your doctor if you notice your baby's skin turning yellow. There are other causes for jaundice in the newborn that are easily treated.

Genetic counseling can help families understand the condition, its risks of recurring, and how to care for the patient.

Reviewed last on: 8/11/2009
Diana Chambers, MS, EdD, Certified Genetics Counselor (ABMG), Charter member of the ABGC, University of Tennessee, Memphis, TN. Review provided by VeriMed HealthcareNetwork. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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