Kernicterus
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- Bookshelf ID: NBK559120
Kernicterus
Excerpt
Kernicterus, or bilirubin encephalopathy, is bilirubin-induced neurological damage, which is most commonly seen in infants. It occurs when the unconjugated bilirubin (indirect bilirubin) levels cross 25 mg/dL in the blood from any event leading to decreased elimination and increased production of bilirubin. The unconjugated bilirubin can cross the blood-brain barrier as it is lipid-soluble, unlike the water-soluble conjugated bilirubin. It gets deposited in the brain tissue, mainly the basal ganglia. The neurotoxicity of unconjugated bilirubin leads to various neurologic sequelae.
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- Introduction
- Etiology
- Epidemiology
- Pathophysiology
- History and Physical
- Evaluation
- Treatment / Management
- Differential Diagnosis
- Pertinent Studies and Ongoing Trials
- Prognosis
- Complications
- Deterrence and Patient Education
- Pearls and Other Issues
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