Understanding Newborn Jaundice
Jaundice occurs when bilirubin (a yellow pigment from red blood cell breakdown) builds up in the blood. Mild jaundice is common and usually harmless, but severe hyperbilirubinemia can cause permanent brain damage if not treated promptly.
Risk Factors for Severe Jaundice
Babies at increased risk include:
- ✓Premature infants
- ✓Babies with blood type incompatibility (ABO or Rh)
- ✓Significant bruising from birth
- ✓Siblings who had severe jaundice
- ✓Breastfeeding difficulties
- ✓East Asian or Mediterranean ethnicity
What is Kernicterus?
Kernicterus occurs when bilirubin crosses into the brain and damages brain cells. It causes a specific pattern of brain damage affecting movement, hearing, and cognition. The condition is entirely preventable with proper monitoring and treatment.
Signs of Kernicterus
Warning signs that require immediate attention include:
- ✓Extreme yellowing of skin and eyes
- ✓High-pitched crying
- ✓Poor feeding or weak suck
- ✓Extreme sleepiness or lethargy
- ✓Arched back (opisthotonus)
- ✓Seizures
Treatment and Prevention
Phototherapy (light treatment) effectively lowers bilirubin levels. In severe cases, exchange transfusion may be needed. Standards require regular bilirubin testing, especially for at-risk babies, and treatment based on established guidelines before levels become dangerous.
Medical Negligence in Kernicterus Cases
Negligence may include: failing to test bilirubin levels, early discharge without proper follow-up, failure to provide phototherapy when indicated, not performing exchange transfusion when needed, and not recognizing signs of acute bilirubin encephalopathy.