Meaning of neonatal jaundice? heard brain damage.

Rarely: Jaundice caused by high level of bilirubin in blood can lead to brain damage by compromising the integrity of neuronal cells. Infants with hemolytic disease, e.g., ABO incompatiblity, are at higher risk. Extreme preemies are also at high risk even with modestly elevated bilirubin level.

Immature liver: Jaundice occurs due to an immature liver unable to metabolize bilirubin, a breakdown product of hemoglobin and the breakdown of red blood cells in the newborn. Unless the level gets excessively high it should not be a problem.

Transition: Before the cord is clamped, the babies blood is cleansed by the mother and all factors that would trigger jaundice are handled by her mature system.At birth,this work must be done by babies liver, that had been resting.Levels rise until the liver begins to catch up with the work.About 1/3 have it to some, others have much more.If treated it can be controlled and damage prevented.