[Kernicterus in a full-term male infant a few days old]

Abstract

A male baby born at term via an uncomplicated vaginal delivery was presented on the fourth day of life with jaundice, accompanied by neurological symptoms related to kernicterus. Despite extensive investigations, a clear cause for his hyperbilirubinaemia could not be found. After 10 days of intensive care he was left with deafness and a severe extrapyramidal motor disturbance. Recently revised practice guidelines suggest a less aggressive approach for the treatment of jaundice with phototherapy or exchange transfusion in newborns. However, in the presence of factors for kernicterus, early and, if necessary, frequent measurement of the serum bilirubin concentration remains important to prevent serious and life-long complications.