Kernicterus in neonates from ethnic minorities in the UK

Kernicterus (bilirubin encephalopathy) is an important cause of lifelong neurodisability, with UK incidence of 0.9/100 000 live births.1 It causes painful dystonia, limits voluntary movements and affects speech and hearing, though often preserving cognition. The impact is reflected in the high cost of successful claims.2 Disturbingly, non-white ethnic groups are disproportionately affected in the UK. Neonates from UK ethnic minority groups are at high risk of hyperbilirubinaemia. General risk factors include gestational age <38 weeks, intention to solely breast feed, jaundice with onset in the first 24 hours and/or progression of jaundice. In some groups, haemolytic diseases such as glucose 6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency have increased prevalence. In a UK/Ireland surveillance study of severe neonatal hyperbilirubinaemia, only 48% were identified as ‘white’.1 Not all neonates with severe hyperbilirubinaemia develop encephalopathy. Risk factors include younger gestational age, Rhesus haemolytic disease, sepsis,3...
Source: Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition - Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Tags: PostScript Source Type: research