children s health issues
Jaundice in the Newborn
Complications of jaundice
Whether jaundice is dangerous depends on What causes the jaundice How high the bilirubin level is Whether the bilirubin is conjugated or unconjugated Some disorders that cause jaundice are dangerous whatever the bilirubin level is. Extremely high unconjugated bilirubin levels regardless of cause are dangerous. Themost serious consequence of high unconjugated bilirubin levelsis Kernicterus is brain damage due to accumulation of bilirubin in the brain. The risk of this disorder is higher for newborns who are Preterm (Premature) Newborns , who are seriously ill, or who are given certain medications. If untreated, kernicterus may lead to significant brain injury resulting in 