Effects of Phototherapy on Cytokines' Levels and White Blood Cells in Term Neonate with Hyperbilirubinemia

Objective: Phototherapy is the most common treatment used for severe jaundice. There is increasing evidence that phototherapy can directly affect the expression and function of cell surface receptors including adhesion molecules, cytokines, and growth factor receptors. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of phototherapy use on the levels of interleukin (IL)-1 alpha, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha as cytokine expressions from keratinocytes, and also white blood cell counts in the treatment of neonate with hyperbilirubinemia. Materials and Methods: We studied 32 term newborns with hyperbilirubinemia. Blood samples were obtained before and 72 h after phototherapy. Serum levels of IL-1 alpha, IL-6, TNF-alpha, and WBC count were measured in the samples using appropriate methods. Results: Serum TNF-alpha at 72 h of exposure to phototherapy increased, while the levels of IL-1 alpha and IL-6 at the same time were decreased. These changes were not statistically significant. WBC counts rose significantly with phototherapy. Conclusion: Phototherapy in term neonate does not affect cytokines' levels, but can raise peripheral WBC count.