Health A-Z

Kernicterus is a rare but serious neurological condition that occurs in newborns with severe jaundice. It is characterized by the accumulation of bilirubin in the brain, leading to brain damage. Here's an overview of the symptoms, treatment plan, and diagnosis testing for kernicterus.

1. Yellow Skin and Eyes (Jaundice): Jaundice is the primary symptom of kernicterus, characterized by yellowing of the skin and sclera (the white part of the eyes). In severe cases, jaundice may become noticeable within the first 24 hours after birth.
2. Poor Feeding: Infants with kernicterus may have difficulty feeding, leading to inadequate nutrition and weight gain.
3. Lethargy: Kernicterus can cause lethargy or decreased responsiveness in affected infants.
4. High-Pitched Cry: Some infants with kernicterus may exhibit a high-pitched cry, which can be a sign of neurological distress.
5. Muscle Rigidity or Hypotonia: Kernicterus can affect muscle tone, resulting in either increased muscle rigidity or hypotonia (decreased muscle tone).
6. Seizures: Seizures may occur in severe cases of kernicterus due to the toxic effects of bilirubin on the brain.
7. Developmental Delay: Long-term complications of kernicterus may include developmental delay, intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, hearing loss, and vision impairment.

1. Phototherapy: Phototherapy is the primary treatment for jaundice in newborns. It involves exposing the infant's skin to special lights that help break down bilirubin and facilitate its elimination from the body.
2. Exchange Transfusion: In severe cases of jaundice that do not respond to phototherapy, exchange transfusion may be necessary. This procedure involves replacing a portion of the baby's blood with donor blood to rapidly reduce bilirubin levels.
3. Monitoring and Supportive Care: Infants with kernicterus require close monitoring and supportive care to address symptoms such as feeding difficulties, dehydration, and seizures. This may involve hospitalization in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for specialized care and monitoring.
4. Long-Term Management: Infants who survive kernicterus may require long-term medical and developmental support to address neurological complications and optimize their quality of life. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and educational interventions tailored to the child's individual needs.

1. Bilirubin Testing: Bilirubin levels are measured through a blood test to assess the severity of jaundice. High levels of unconjugated bilirubin in the blood may indicate a risk of kernicterus.
2. Physical Examination: A physical examination is performed to assess the infant's overall health, including signs of jaundice, feeding difficulties, neurological symptoms, and muscle tone.
3. Neurological Evaluation: Infants suspected of having kernicterus may undergo neurological evaluation to assess for signs of brain damage, such as abnormal reflexes, muscle tone abnormalities, and seizures.
4. Brain Imaging: Imaging studies such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans may be performed to evaluate for structural abnormalities or signs of brain damage associated with kernicterus.