Gourt > Health > Conditions and Diseases > Neurological Disorders > Brain Diseases > Metabolic > Kernicterus
Kernicterus is damage to the brain centers of infants caused by jaundice. Newborn babies are often polycythemic, meaning they have too many red blood cells. When they break down the cells, one of the by-products is bilirubin, which circulates in the blood, and causes jaundice.
In adults and older children, jaundice is harmless in and of itself. But the tissues protecting the brain (the blood-brain barrier) are immature in newborns. The bilirubin penetrates the brain, and literally stains the nerve bodies, causing irreversible damage. Depending on the level of exposure, the effects range from unnoticeable to severe brain damage.
Some medications, such as trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole may induce this disorder to the baby when taken by the mother.
More on [ Kernicterus ]
Rare Disorders :: Conditions and Diseases
Kernicterus, by Joseph Junewick, MD, http://ln-s.net/4h3F posted. #radiology
arsteach (ARSt) Sun, 13 Dec 2009 23:07:56 -0000
Kernicterus, by Joseph Junewick, MD, http://ln-s.net/4h3F posted. #radiology
Adam: An Overview - An extensive look at kernicterus, including a description, the causes, incidence and risk factors.
Family Practice Notebook: Kernicterus - Offers the pathophysiology, symptoms and signs and prognosis.
Meta Description: [ Neonatology: Gastroenterology: Jaundice Nonphysiologic Kernicterus ]
NORD: Kernicterus - Offers synonyms, a general discussion and further resources.
Meta Description: [ National Organization for Rare Disorders is dedicated to helping people with rare, orphan diseases. Rarediseases.org contains information on the prevention, treatment and cure of rare diseases. ]
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