Filtered-sunlight Phototherapy in Neonatal Jaundice: A Literature Review

Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia remains a major cause of preventable morbidity in low- and middle-income countries where reliable electric phototherapy is limited. This review article aims to compare and analyze previous studies regarding the effectiveness, safety, and feasibility of filtered-sunlight phototherapy relative to conventional electric phototherapy for treating neonatal jaundice. A Scopus search (“Filtered sunlight phototherapy”), limited to 2015–2025 and English, identified 21 records; topical screening yielded 11 studies for narrative synthesis. Randomized trials showed FSPT was non-inferior to intensive electric phototherapy, achieving effective treatment on ~87–94% of assessable days across moderate-to-severe and severe-to-hazardous jaundice. Observational data supported high effectiveness with protocolized monitoring. Safety was acceptable: no therapy withdrawals were reported, and exchange transfusion and short-term mortality were similar between modalities; hyperthermia occurred more often with FSPT but was manageable with vigilant temperature and hydration checks. Operationally, FSPT relies on standardized filters that transmit therapeutic blue/blue-green light while blocking ultraviolet and reducing infrared, and frequently requires supplemental night-time electric phototherapy. Overall, FSPT appears safe, effective, and feasible as an adjunct or bridge where device quality or power supply constrain care. Priorities include refined dosimetry standards, multi-site implementation and cost-effectiveness evaluations, and long-term outcomes.