Smartphone-based monitoring and algorithmic prediction of neonatal jaundice: integrated technology for improved outpatient care

Aim Post-discharge identification and monitoring of neonatal jaundice remain challenging. The aim of this study was to analyse bilirubin predictions up to 10 days after birth and assess their relationship with smartphone-based optical screening in outpatient care. Methods Prospective observational study conducted from July to September 2023 in an academic perinatal centre. After discharge, parents used the Picterus® JP Jaundice Pro app with a colour calibration card to perform daily bilirubin measurements for up to 10 days. These measurements were compared with predictions from the BiliPredics algorithm. Results 45 healthy neonates qualified for inclusion, of whom 44 had a total serum bilirubin (TSB) measurement. Homebased Picterus® JP measurements showed a significant correlation with TSB and aligned well with BiliPredics trajectories. Beyond the validated 144-hour (6 days) window, BiliPredics slightly overestimated bilirubin levels compared with Picterus® JP. No significant correlation was found between parents' subjective handling assessments and measurement outcomes. Conclusion Combining clinical decision-support tools such as BiliPredics with optical bilirubin measurements may offer a promising approach for discharge planning and home-based monitoring of neonatal jaundice throughout the course of hyperbilirubinemia.