ABO Incompatibility and Kernicterus

Описание: ABO incompatibility can seem like a small blood type issue — but if it’s not properly monitored and treated, it can lead to severe jaundice and permanent brain injury.

In this video, Houston birth injury attorney Adam Funk explains the connection between ABO incompatibility, high bilirubin levels, and kernicterus.

ABO incompatibility happens when a mother’s blood type is incompatible with her baby’s blood type. In certain cases, the mother’s antibodies attack the baby’s red blood cells. When those red blood cells break down, they produce bilirubin — a waste product that newborns cannot efficiently eliminate because their livers are still immature.

When bilirubin builds up, babies develop jaundice, which causes:

• Yellowing of the skin
• Yellowing of the eyes
• Lethargy or poor feeding

Jaundice is often treatable with phototherapy (blue light therapy). But if bilirubin levels rise too high and treatment is delayed or missed, bilirubin can cross into the brain and cause kernicterus — a form of permanent brain damage.

Kernicterus can lead to:

• Cerebral palsy
• Hearing loss
• Developmental delays
• Movement disorders
• Cognitive impairment

Importantly, blood incompatibility issues can often be identified during pregnancy — sometimes as early as the 20–28 week mark. When properly diagnosed, preventative treatments and close monitoring can significantly reduce the risk of severe newborn injury.

If your baby had very high bilirubin levels, severe jaundice, or was diagnosed with kernicterus, it is critical to review not just what happened after birth — but what happened during pregnancy.

If you have questions about ABO incompatibility, jaundice, bilirubin levels, or potential birth injury malpractice in Texas, this video provides important information for families seeking answers.

📍 Adam Funk
Houston, Texas Birth Injury Attorney
Helping families harmed by preventable birth injuries

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