Newborn and infant jaundice occurs when bilirubin builds up in the blood. The Mayo Clinic explains that the liver processes bilirubin in the blood so it can exit the body. While an infant is in the womb, the placenta removes the bilirubin but at birth the baby's liver takes over, explains the Mayo Clinic. An infant's liver is immature and may not be able to process the blood properly, allowing the levels to build up. Mild and moderate jaundice requires very little treatment, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic, but untreated jaundice that progresses can be serious.
Significant Jaundice Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic points out that infants with extremely high levels of bilirubin may eat poorly or suffer from extreme tiredness. Hydration and adequate feeding can further complicate the jaundice. Pale-colored stools can also suggest that an infant has more severe jaundice, explains the Mayo Clinic. The NLM also suggests the infant may produce high-pitched crying, backward arching of the neck and body and fever. The infant may be difficult to wake.
Brain Damage
Kernicterus is the syndrome that affects the brain if bilirubin levels rise and go without treatment. The Mayo Clinic suggests the results include involuntary and uncontrolled movements, permanent upward gaze, hearing loss or intellectual impairment. Other forms of brain damage may result that can lead to developmental delays
Other Complications
When jaundice is not treated or it becomes severe, an infant may suffer from a number of complications that may be permanent. The Mayo Clinic suggests complications like cerebral palsy or deafness. The NLM points out that in a severe case of jaundice, an infant may require a blood transfusion to lower the bilirubin levels in the body.
