Smartphone Could Screen for Jaundice in Newborns

A team from the University of Washington is developing a smartphone app called BiliCam that could make it easier for doctors and parents to monitor newborns to determine if blood tests are needed to confirm jaundice. Caregivers can use the app by placing a calibration card on the baby’s naked torso and then taking a photo with their smartphone. The app then uses an algorithm to analyze the photo and report on the likely levels of bilirubin in the baby. Bilirubin is a substance that builds up in the blood causing a yellowing of skin and happens in newborns when the liver is not yet optimally functioning. The team hopes the app will also be useful in developing countries where jaundice accounts for many newborn deaths.
University of Washington, August 2014