This
condition is called kernicterus or bilirubin encephalopathy.
Kernicterus
is a condition when unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia occurs, (for
example, as a result of hemolytic disease). As a result, unconjugated bilirubin crosses
the blood-brain barrier and, because it is lipid soluble, it penetrates
neuronal and glial membranes. It usually happens in the neonatal period and prematurity and low birth
weight are the major risk factors for bilirubin-induced brain injury.
