acute bilirubin encephalopathy

Acute bilirubin encephalopathy is a rare neurological condition that occurs in newborns. It happens when high levels of unconjugated bilirubin build up in the blood, eventually accumulating in certain parts of the brain such as the globus pallidus and sub-thalamic nuclei. This buildup can cause significant brain dysfunction due to the toxicity of bilirubin.

People with this condition may show symptoms such as lethargy, low muscle tone (hypotonia), poor feeding, and a characteristic high-pitched cry. Other signs include opisthotonus (severe muscle spasms), fever, apnea (pauses in breathing), seizures, and even coma. In some cases, respiratory failure or uncontrollable seizures can occur, which may be life-threatening.

The condition results from severe neonatal unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, where high levels of bilirubin accumulate and affect brain function. The bilirubin buildup occurs in specific brain regions leading to the symptoms seen in this condition. The underlying cause is linked to the metabolic processing of bilirubin in newborns.

Information about treatment is currently limited for this condition.

The outlook for people with acute bilirubin encephalopathy varies. While some symptoms may be managed, severe cases can lead to critical complications such as respiratory failure or persistent seizures, which may have a fatal outcome.

Information about current research is currently limited for this condition.