Kernicterus : Medical Negligence

Kernicterus is caused by high levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream which can selectively damage the parts of the brain that have a crucial role in controlling motor movement. This can result in athetoid cerebral palsy which can also be associated with hearing loss, vision deficiencies and mental retardation. Bilirubin is one of the final breakdown products of haemoglobin contained in red blood cells and some newborn babies produce too much bilirubin which builds up and causes jaundice. Jaundice is very common in newborn babies however some babies have very high levels which can damage the brain and as a result any sign of jaundice should be monitored closely. Indications of kernicterus may include:

• Orange or yellow skin colour
• Difficulty in awakening the baby
• Reduction in awareness
• Weakness, limpness, or floppiness
• High pitched cry
• Body arched like a bow
• Poor sucking or nursing

Untreated jaundice may result in kernicterus however most babies with jaundice do not need treatment to make a full recovery. Jaundice is common in newborns as the liver is not sufficiently developed to efficiently remove bilirubin. Jaundice can be cleared using either phototherapy treatment or in more serious cases an exchange transfusion may be necessary. The risk factors include:

• Sibling who has had jaundice increases the risk.
• A baby who has bruises at birth is likely to have jaundice due to the body processing the haemoglobin in the red blood cells resulting in the release of high levels of bilirubin
• Babies born before 37 weeks may have an underdeveloped liver and be unable to eliminate bilirubinin.
• Babies who are poor eaters are at risk of jaundice.
• A baby who is jaundiced in the first 24 hours of life may become dangerously jaundiced.
• Hereditary factors including the children of Mediterranean or East Asian families.

We an independent network of medical negligence solicitors and we are currently reviewing claims and arranging legal representation for people throughout the United Kingdom. Our service is completely free and compensation is paid in full with no deductions. Legal Aid is available for kernicterus compensation claims and only the child's income if any is taken into account. Most children will qualify for full Legal Aid with no financial contribution, even thought the parents may have substantial income and assets.

If you believe that your child's condition was caused by medical negligence and you would like free advice from a specialist then just complete the kernicterus report form and a solicitor who is a member of The Law Society panel of medical negligence experts will telephone you to discuss your child's claim.