Jaundice in the preterm infant.

Around 80 per cent of preterm infants develop hyperbilirubinaemia characterised by jaundice. This condition is most commonly treated with phototherapy and/or exchange transfusion. There is conflicting evidence regarding the management of preterm infants receiving phototherapy, including fluid management regimes, thermoregulation and prevention of other complications. A though phototherapy appears to effectively treat preterm jaundice, aspects of its use remain controversial and its apparent success is not evidence based. Research must continue to facilitate the development of effective treatment and the establishment of evidence-based guidelines.