Kernicterus

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Kernicterus (pronounced: ker-nik-ter-us) is a rare but serious complication of untreated jaundice in newborns. The term is derived from the Greek words "kern" meaning nucleus, and "icterus" meaning yellow, referring to the yellow staining of brain tissues caused by high levels of bilirubin.

Definition

Kernicterus is a form of brain damage caused by excessive levels of bilirubin. When a baby has severe jaundice, there is a risk that the bilirubin, a waste product normally removed by the liver, will build up in the blood and spread into the brain tissues. This can lead to permanent brain damage, a condition known as kernicterus.

Symptoms

Symptoms of kernicterus in a newborn may include extreme sleepiness, poor feeding, abnormal muscle rigidity, and a high-pitched cry. In severe cases, a baby with kernicterus may develop seizures, hearing loss, intellectual disabilities, and cerebral palsy.

Causes

Kernicterus is caused by very high levels of bilirubin in a baby's blood. This can occur if the baby's body is producing too much bilirubin or if the baby's liver isn't processing bilirubin properly. Conditions that can increase a newborn's risk of developing kernicterus include premature birth, blood type incompatibility with the mother, and certain genetic disorders.

Treatment

Treatment for kernicterus focuses on preventing or managing complications. This may include phototherapy to lower bilirubin levels, blood transfusions, and medications. In some cases, a type of surgery called an exchange transfusion may be necessary.

Prevention

Preventing kernicterus involves treating newborn jaundice before it becomes severe. This may include more frequent feedings, phototherapy, and in some cases, hospitalization.

See Also

External links

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