If an infant exhibits an abnormal color, which laboratory value is most likely to be checked?

If an infant exhibits an abnormal color, which laboratory value is most likely to be checked?

• A. Albumin level
• B. Probnp level
• C. Hemoglobin level
• D. Bilirubin level

Answer: (D)

When an infant presents with an abnormal color, particularly signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), the bilirubin level is the most relevant laboratory value to assess. Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate underlying conditions such as hemolytic disease or liver dysfunction, both of which can lead to abnormal coloration in the infant. Monitoring bilirubin levels is crucial in infants, as excessive levels can lead to serious complications, including kernicterus, which can cause permanent neurological damage. Thus, checking bilirubin levels helps determine the cause of the color abnormality and guides treatment decisions. Other laboratory values listed, such as albumin, ProBNP, and hemoglobin, while important in various medical contexts, do not directly address the color changes caused by bilirubin metabolism. Hence, bilirubin is the key indicator here.

When an infant presents with an abnormal color, particularly signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), the bilirubin level is the most relevant laboratory value to assess. Bilirubin is a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells and is processed by the liver. Elevated bilirubin levels can indicate underlying conditions such as hemolytic disease or liver dysfunction, both of which can lead to abnormal coloration in the infant.

Monitoring bilirubin levels is crucial in infants, as excessive levels can lead to serious complications, including kernicterus, which can cause permanent neurological damage. Thus, checking bilirubin levels helps determine the cause of the color abnormality and guides treatment decisions.

Other laboratory values listed, such as albumin, ProBNP, and hemoglobin, while important in various medical contexts, do not directly address the color changes caused by bilirubin metabolism. Hence, bilirubin is the key indicator here.