What Is The Difference Between Jaundice And Kernicterus?

Jaundice is a common condition caused by a build-up of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in a newborn baby’s blood. Bilirubin is produced naturally when red blood cells break down, but a newborn baby’s liver may not yet process it quickly enough. This can cause the baby’s skin and the whites of their eyes to appear yellow. Kernicterus is a rare but serious form of permanent brain damage that can develop when severe jaundice is not recognised and treated quickly enough.

Most babies who develop jaundice do not go on to develop kernicterus. With appropriate checks, monitoring and treatment, hospital care staff can usually prevent bilirubin levels from becoming dangerous. However, if warning signs are missed or treatment is delayed, excess bilirubin can enter the baby’s brain and cause lasting harm.