What is kernicterus?

Kernicterus is a rare but serious type of brain damage that can occur in newborns with severe jaundice. It is caused by very high levels of bilirubin in the blood.

Kernicterus is caused by an extremely high level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. When bilirubin levels become excessively high, it can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause damage to the brain and nervous system.

Symptoms of kernicterus may include lethargy, poor feeding, a high-pitched cry, muscle rigidity, involuntary muscle movements, and seizures. If untreated, kernicterus can lead to long-term complications.

Kernicterus is typically diagnosed through a combination of assessing clinical symptoms and measuring high bilirubin levels. Additional diagnostic tests such as blood tests, brain scans, or neurological examinations may be conducted.

Newborns who are premature, have a significant birth trauma, or incompatible blood types with their mother are at higher risk of developing severe jaundice and potentially kernicterus. Additionally, infants who are exclusively breastfed may have increased risk due to lack of adequate feeding.

Kernicterus can often be prevented by early detection and treatment of high bilirubin levels in newborns. Phototherapy, ensuring proper feeding to promote bilirubin excretion, and in severe cases, exchange transfusions may be used to manage jaundice.

While the initial symptoms can sometimes be treated if detected early, once brain damage has occurred from kernicterus, it may be irreversible. Management focuses on controlling symptoms and providing adequate support for affected individuals.

Long-term effects of kernicterus may include movement disorders such as cerebral palsy, hearing loss, vision problems, dental issues, and cognitive impairments.

Kernicterus is rare in developed countries due to advancements in newborn screening and treatment. However, it remains a concern in areas with limited access to healthcare.

Kernicterus can affect both male and female infants equally. There is no documented gender preference.

Kernicterus itself cannot be detected before birth, but some risk factors for severe jaundice can be identified, such as Rh incompatibility or other blood type mismatches between the mother and baby.

Early treatment of jaundice is crucial to prevent bilirubin levels from becoming dangerously high, which can lead to kernicterus and associated brain damage.

Common treatments for high bilirubin levels include phototherapy, increased feeding or hydration, and in severe cases, an exchange transfusion where the baby's blood is replaced with donor blood.

No, kernicterus is not contagious. It is a condition caused by internal biological factors rather than an infectious agent.

If diagnosed early before brain damage occurs, treatments can prevent progress to kernicterus. However, once brain damage has occurred, it may not be completely reversible.

While breastfeeding is encouraged, inadequate feeding can contribute to higher bilirubin levels. Proper breastfeeding practices can help reduce the risk of severe jaundice.

Genetic factors such as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency can increase the risk of high bilirubin levels, potentially leading to kernicterus.

Babies treated for high bilirubin levels typically need follow-up visits to ensure bilirubin levels decrease and to check for any signs of complications or developmental issues.

The prognosis varies depending on the extent of the brain damage. Some may have lifelong disabilities, while others have milder symptoms with appropriate treatment and support.

Future siblings may be at risk if the underlying cause of jaundice (such as hemolytic disease) is present. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor bilirubin levels closely in future pregnancies.