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Kernicterus - Treatment

Alternative Names

Bilirubin encephalopathy

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

Expectations (prognosis):

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

Complications:

  • Permanent brain damage
  • Hearing loss
  • Death

Calling your health care provider:

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

  • Reviewed last on: 5/9/2011
  • Kimberly G Lee, MD, MSc, IBCLC, Associate Professor of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics. Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Hospital stay for healthy term newborns. Pedatrics. 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.
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