kernicterus
Pronunciation: KER-nik-ter-us
Severe neurological damage caused by excessive bilirubin deposition in the brain, a potential complication of hemolytic anemia in newborns.
Full Definition
Kernicterus is a form of brain damage caused by very high levels of unconjugated bilirubin that cross the blood-brain barrier and deposit in the basal ganglia and brainstem nuclei. This condition can occur in newborns with severe hemolytic anemia, such as those with erythroblastosis fetalis or glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency. Early signs include lethargy, poor feeding, and high-pitched crying, while chronic kernicterus results in permanent neurological sequelae including cerebral palsy, hearing loss, and intellectual disability. Prevention involves aggressive treatment of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia through phototherapy and exchange transfusion when indicated.
Usage
Usage note: Term derives from German; avoid confusion with simple hyperbilirubinemia.
In Context
- "The infant's bilirubin level of 35 mg/dL placed him at high risk for kernicterus, necessitating immediate exchange transfusion." — Emergency department note
- "MRI findings were consistent with chronic kernicterus, explaining the child's movement disorder." — Neurology consultation