What is transcutaneous bilirubin measurement?
Because serum bilirubin measurement via heelstick is invasive and expensive (although it is considered a reliable and accurate measure) an alternative, noninvasive method of screening for bilirubin levels in infants can be used: a transcutaneous bilirubinometer, or jaundice meter. The bilirubin meter is a noninvasive instrument which is pressed against the baby’s skin (usually on the forehead). The instrument produces an electro flash. The reflected light from the skin is analyzed and electronically evaluated. The bilirubin meter shows either an index number or the level. Because measurements can be affected by race, gestational age and birth weight, this type of device is more useful with a homogenous population. Once phototherapy is initiated, these devices are less reliable; if they are used, a small area of skin needs to be kept patched for use in testing.
