What is a common outcome of untreated severe jaundice in newborns?

Severe jaundice in newborns, if left untreated, can lead to neurotoxicity, which occurs due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream. When bilirubin levels become excessively high, it can cross the blood-brain barrier and deposit in the brain tissues, resulting in a condition known as kernicterus. This condition can cause permanent damage to the brain, leading to a range of severe neurological issues, including cognitive impairment, movement disorders, and hearing loss.

Management of jaundice typically involves treating the underlying cause and may include phototherapy or exchange transfusion to reduce bilirubin levels and prevent neurotoxicity. Early recognition and intervention are crucial in preventing these serious outcomes. The focus on neurotoxicity as a potential complication of untreated severe jaundice highlights the importance of monitoring bilirubin levels in newborns, particularly those with risk factors for developing jaundice.