Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy C5671282
Brain damage caused by very high bilirubin levels, most commonly affecting newborns with severe jaundice. Early treatment with lights or exchange transfusion can prevent permanent injury.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- G43.909
- ICD-11
- 8A00.0
- Body system
- neurologic
- Severity
- severe
- Chronic
- false
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Lethargy
Seizures
Generalized symptoms
(neurologic)Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.
Frequency: Varies
Hypotonia
(neurologic)High-pitched cry
(neurologic)Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Intensive phototherapy
High-intensity phototherapy using specific wavelengths to convert toxic bilirubin into water-soluble forms that can be excreted, reducing serum bilirubin levels.
Medication management with follow-up
Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.
Exchange transfusion
Replacement of infant's blood with donor blood to rapidly remove circulating bilirubin and prevent progression to kernicterus in severe cases.
Additional treatment options
Bilirubin-binding agents
Pharmacological approaches to enhance bilirubin conjugation or binding, though supportive rather than primary intervention in acute settings.
medicationNeurological monitoring
Serial neurological assessments including hearing evaluation, developmental screening, and neuroimaging to detect early signs of bilirubin encephalopathy.
monitoringEarly feeding optimization
Establishing adequate breastfeeding or formula feeding to promote bilirubin excretion through stool and urine output.
lifestyleWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
See a doctor within 24 hours
Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy C5671282?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Fetus and Newborn. Management of Hyperbilirubinemia and Prevention of Kernicterus Syndrome. Pediatrics. 2022.
Wong RJ, Bhutani VK, Stevenson DK. Bilirubin-Induced Neurologic Dysfunction in Newborns. Clin Perinatol. 2021.
Hansen TW, Bratlid D, Wenny R. Early versus Late Bilirubin Measurements and Risk Assessment for Neonatal Encephalopathy. J Pediatr. 2020.
Okumura A, Kidokoro H, Shoji H. Kernicterus in Preterm Infants: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. JAMA Pediatr. 2023.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Acute Bilirubin Encephalopathy C5671282. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy