Neonatal jaundice, animal-induced injuries, and immunizations

The authors describe current investigation and most recent developments in three areas of pediatrics commonly faced by the office practitioner. The im petus of earlier newborn discharge places increased emphasis on pediatricia ns to accurately predict clinically significant jaundice. A better understa nding of the pathophysiology of breastfeeding and breast milk jaundice, and the realization that Gilbert's syndrome may play a greater role in neonata l jaundice, only help confirm that the story of neonatal jaundice is still unfolding. Animal (particularly canine) bite injuries continue to be the mo st common animal-induced injuries, and a thorough review of appropriate ant ibiotic treatment and rabies prophylaxis guidelines are essential for the p ediatric practitioner. During the past year, several major changes involvin g the use of rotavirus, pneumococcal, polio, meningococcal, and hepatitis A vaccines have taken place, which will have marked impact not only on pedia tric office practice, but also on society as a whole. Curr Opin Pediatr 200 0, 12:413-425 (C) 2000 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.