P57.9: Kernicterus, unspecified

An excessive level of bilirubin has damaged parts of the child’s brain.

Blood is made up of a liquid part and different blood cells, among other things. The blood cells include the red blood cells, the white blood cells and the platelets. The red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. When red blood cells get broken down, bilirubin results. Bilirubin is yellow. In the liver, bilirubin enters the bile from the blood. Some of the bile is then excreted with the stool.

After the birth, various processes in a baby's body have to adapt. In the process, many red blood cells get broken down and a lot of bilirubin is produced. At the same time, it may be that not enough bilirubin gets excreted via the bile and the stool. For a variety of reasons, more bilirubin may be created. It is also possible that less bilirubin gets excreted than normal. The bilirubin can then accumulate in various body tissues. Neo-natal jaundice then develops.

When a baby has jaundice, the whites of its eyes and its skin can be yellow. A very high level of bilirubin in the blood has also caused damage in the brain. There can be different indications of brain damage. There may first be a sucking weakness and severe lethargy. The child may also suffer seizures and breathing interruptions. Paralyses and mobility disorders are also possible. Its hearing may also be impaired. The brain damage may also prevent the proper development of certain mental capabilities.