What wavelength is used in the given instrument to treat any pathology in new born?
**Core Concept:** Phototherapy is a non-pharmacological treatment for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia, which is commonly caused by the breakdown of red blood cells. It uses specific wavelengths of light to promote bilirubin conversion into less toxic compounds, preventing bilirubin neurotoxicity. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed during the breakdown of heme in red blood cells.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** In phototherapy, bilirubin is selectively converted to less toxic compounds, mainly through the action of bilirubin dehydrogenase enzyme (UDP-glucuronosyltransferase) that binds bilirubin and glucuronic acid to form bilirubin-glucuronide, which is less toxic and easily excreted in urine. The correct answer refers to the use of blue light (wavelength 450-495 nm) for phototherapy, as it promotes bilirubin dehydrogenase activity and thus, is effective in reducing bilirubin levels.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. Red light (wavelength 630-720 nm) is incorrect because it does not promote bilirubin dehydrogenase activity as effectively as blue light.
B. Near-infrared light (wavelength 720-1,000 nm) is incorrect because it lacks the necessary wavelength to activate bilirubin dehydrogenase effectively.
C. White light, although containing blue light, may not be as effective as blue light alone due to the dilution of the optimal wavelength and interference from other light wavelengths.
**Clinical Pearl:**
*Phototherapy is a safe and effective treatment for neonatal hyperbilirubinemia without harmful side effects, such as those associated with blood exchange transfusions.*
**Correct Answer:** Blue light (450-495 nm) is the correct answer because it promotes bilirubin dehydrogenase activity, which reduces bilirubin levels effectively, thus treating neonatal hyperbilirubinemia without causing significant harm to the newborn.