Can newborn jaundice cause longterm medical problems?

Possibly: Mild jaundice is very common in newborns, especially breast-fed babies. Jaundice is caused by bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin. If the bilirubin level gets too high, it can lead to kernicterus, a rare neurological condition that can lead to permanent brain damage. Most hospitals monitor the bilirubin level in newborns in the nursery.

Rarely: Most jaundice is a passing variation of normal metabolic change.Many hospitals use passive methods to monitor the condition and test blood if there appears to be a problem.If a problem is recognized and treated in its early stages any problem is treatable with good long term outcome. If overlooked, the results can produce long term impairment.