Kernicterus (Noun)
Meaning
An abnormal accumulation of bile pigment in the brain and other nerve tissue; causes yellow staining and tissue damage.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- The infant's prolonged exposure to high bilirubin levels led to kernicterus, resulting in severe neurological damage.
- Kernicterus can occur in newborns with untreated jaundice, causing irreversible brain damage if left unchecked.
- Untreated kernicterus can lead to serious complications, including hearing loss, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disability.
- In severe cases of kernicterus, the yellow pigment accumulation can cause significant damage to the basal ganglia and hippocampus.
- The risk of kernicterus highlights the importance of closely monitoring bilirubin levels in newborns to prevent long-term neurological damage.