#asktheexpert 16.3 tcb on 14th day of birth in 12 th day it was 15.4 ? started formula milk 2days back only before that on mother feed. 6th may admit to photo therapy with 14.4 tcb and discharged with 12.4 tcb now today need to check tcb . Any thought on this?

Question

Accepted Answer

hi mom

you can check with the doctor treating your baby

he will have a better idea

dont worry

check also the symptoms

if you feel then do the test

Accepted Answer

A TCB (Transcutaneous Bilirubin) reading of 16.3 on the 14th day of birth is considered higher than normal, especially beyond the first week. Since your baby has already undergone phototherapy, and the levels reduced to 12.4 before discharge, that was a good sign of improvement.

Now, if the TCB device is not available today and you’re concerned, you should:

Watch for signs of jaundice, especially yellowing of the skin and eyes. Check for poor feeding, sleepiness, or irritability, which can suggest rising bilirubin. Visit your pediatrician or hospital to get a serum bilirubin test (TSB) if TCB is not working. It's more accurate and important at this stage.

At 14+ days, persistent or rising jaundice needs proper evaluation to rule out conditions like breast milk jaundice, infection, or biliary issues, especially if the baby is on mixed or formula feeds now. Please consult your pediatrician as soon as possible.