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What is Kernicterus?

From the Center for Disease Control:

"What is kernicterus?
Kernicterus is a type of brain damage that causes athetoid cerebral palsy and hearing loss. It also causes problems with vision and teeth and sometimes can cause mental retardation.

Who can develop kernicterus?
Any baby with untreated jaundice is at risk for kernicterus. This does not mean that every baby with yellow skin will have brain damage. Most babies with jaundice get better by themselves. If their skin is very yellow, they might need phototherapy treatment. If phototherapy does not lower the baby's bilirubin levels, the baby may need an exchange transfusion. 

What are some warning signs of kernicterus?

 Ask your pediatrician to see your baby the day you call, if your baby

- Is very yellow or orange (skin color changes start from the head and spread to the toes)

- Is hard to wake up or will not sleep at all

- Is not breastfeeding or sucking from a bottle well

- Is very fussy

- Does not have at least 4 wet or dirty diapers in 24 hours"

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Children who develop Kernicterus are often victims of medical maplractice.  The law firm of Gray and White Law repesents victims of medical malpractice, including birth-related injuries.  If your family has been the victim of a birth-related injury, such as Kernicterus, please contact, or email, the experienced attorneys of Gray and White Law for your free consultation.

Gray and White Law

The Speed Mansion

505 West Ormsby Avenue

Louisville, Kentucky 40203

Tel: (502) 637-6000

Toll-Free: (800) 637-6033

Fax: (502) 637-1413

email: mwhite@grayandwhitelaw.com

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