Serial brain MRI and ultrasound findings: Relation to gestational age, bilirubin level, neonatal neurologic status and neurodevelopmental outcome in infants at risk of kernicterus

Severe CP occurred with relatively low TSB levels in preterms but only at high levels in full-terms; HL was difficult to predict; early scans did not reliably predict motor deficits whilst all children with CP had abnormal central grey matter on later scans.

Abstract

Severe CP occurred with relatively low TSB levels in preterms but only at high levels in full-terms; HL was difficult to predict. Early scans did not reliably predict motor deficits whilst all children with CP had abnormal central grey matter on later scans. Abnormal WM was seen early suggesting primary involvement rather than change secondary to grey matter damage. Why characteristic central grey matter MRI features of kernicterus are not seen early remains unexplained.