Bilirubin: The toxic mechanisms of an antioxidant molecule

Hyperbilirubinemia is the most common reason for consultation and hospitalization in the neonatal period. It requires a timely initiation of an effective treatment because newborn infants are especially vulnerable to damage caused by bilirubin in the central nervous system due to the characteristics typical of this stage of life. High bilirubin levels result in neurotoxicity and oxidative stress. However, molecular biology studies have demonstrated that bilirubin itself acts as a potent antioxidant. The objective of this update is to review the processes whereby bilirubin causes cell damage and determine its beneficial antioxidant effects. Knowing these mechanisms may facilitate a more accurate indication of a customized, effective, and timely phototherapy. Until new scientific advances are made, phototherapy should be prescribed based on expert consensus.