Refractory Causes of Kernicterus in Developed Countries: Can We Eradicate G6PD Deficiency Triggered and Low-Bilirubin Kernicterus?

BACKGROUND

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency triggered and low-bilirubin kernicterus persist despite current prevention strategies.

OBJECTIVE

Review efforts to eradicate bilirubin induced brain injury in these two conditions including novel approaches to risk assessment and hyperbilirubinemia evaluation.

RESULT AND

CONCLUSION

In the case of G6PD deficiency, a heightened awareness of populations at risk and an expanded kernicterus prevention strategy focused on intensified parental engagement, education and counselling on neonatal jaundice is needed. In the case of low-bilirubin kernicterus, a renewed focus on identifying infants with hypoalbuminemia and implementation of hyperbilirubinemia treatment thresholds based on the bilirubin/albumin ratio is needed. Bilirubin binding panels when commercially available will prove valuable.