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Kernicterus MeSH Descriptor Data 2025


MeSH Heading
Kernicterus
Tree Number(s)
C10.228.140.163.480
C15.378.295.502
C16.614.304.502
C18.452.132.480
C20.306.502
C23.550.429.750
Unique ID
D007647
RDF Unique Identifier
http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/D007647
Scope Note
A term used pathologically to describe BILIRUBIN staining of the BASAL GANGLIA; BRAIN STEM; and CEREBELLUM and clinically to describe a syndrome associated with HYPERBILIRUBINEMIA. Clinical features include athetosis, MUSCLE SPASTICITY or hypotonia, impaired vertical gaze, and DEAFNESS. Nonconjugated bilirubin enters the brain and acts as a neurotoxin, often in association with conditions that impair the BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER (e.g., SEPSIS). This condition occurs primarily in neonates (INFANT, NEWBORN), but may rarely occur in adults. (Menkes, Textbook of Child Neurology, 5th ed, p613)
Entry Term(s)
Bilirubin Encephalopathy
Encephalopathy, Bilirubin
Encephalopathy, Hyperbilirubinemic
Hyperbilirubinemic Encephalopathy
NLM Classification #
WL 362
Date Established
1966/01/01
Date of Entry
1999/01/01
Revision Date
2013/07/09
Kernicterus Preferred
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