Kernicterus

Definition

Kernicterus is a rare neurological condition that occurs in some newborns with severe jaundice.

See also: Newborn jaundice

Alternative Names

Bilirubin encephalopathy

Causes

Kernicterus is caused by very high levels of bilirubin. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is created in the body during the normal recycling of old red blood cells. High levels of bilirubin in the body can cause the skin to look yellow (which is called jaundice).

In some cases when there are extremely high levels of bilirubin in the body or the baby is extremely ill, the substance will move out of the blood and collect in the brain tissue. This can lead to serious neurological complications, including brain damage and hearing loss.

Kernicterus usually develops in the first week of life, but may be seen up until the third week. Newborns with Rh hemolytic disease that may lead to hydrops fetalis are at high risk for severe jaundice that leads to this condition. However, kernicterus has been seen in apparently healthy babies.

Symptoms

The symptoms depend on the stage of kernicterus.

Early stage:

• Extreme jaundice
• Absent startle reflex
• Poor feeding or sucking
• Extreme sleepiness (lethargy)

Mid stage:

• High-pitched cry
• Arched back with neck hyperextended backwards
• Bulging fontanel (soft spot)
• Seizures

Late stage (full neurological syndrome):

• High-frequency hearing loss
• Mental retardation
• Muscle rigidity
• Speech difficulties
• Seizures
• Movement disorder

Exams and Tests

A blood test will show a high bilirubin level (greater than 20-25 mg/dL).

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

Treatment

Treatment depends on how old the baby is (in hours) and whether the baby has any risk factors (such as prematurity). It may include:

• Light therapy (phototherapy)
• Exchange transfusions

Outlook (Prognosis)

Kernicterus is a serious condition. The outcome is guarded. Many infants with late stage nervous system complications die.

Possible Complications

• Permanent brain damage
• Hearing loss
• Death

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Seek immediate medical help if your baby has signs of this condition.

Prevention

Early diagnosis and treatment of jaundice or conditions that lead to jaundice may help prevent this complication. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants with the first signs of jaundice have their bilirubin level measured within 24 hours. If the level is high, the infant should be screened for diseases that involve the destruction of red blood cells (hemolysis).

The association also recommends that all newborns have a follow-up appointment within 2 to 3 days after leaving the hospital. This is particularly important for premature or near-term babies.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Hospital stay for healthy term newborns. Pediatrics. 2010; 125: 405.

American Academy of Pediatrics, Subcommittee on Hyperbilirubinemia Management of hyperbilirubinemia in the newborn infant 35 or more weeks of gestation. Pediatrics. 2004;114: 297-316.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.