Neonatal Jaundice and the Developing Brain: Pathophysiology, Clinical Management, and Long-Term Neurological Outcome
Ifeoma Bianca Nkwocha1, Damilare Alabi Akanbi2*, David Akinyemi2, Esther Timileyin Ogunwale3, Iyanuoluwa Gladys Aremu4, Merylin Wuraola Ogunlola5, Oluwayemisi Deborah Olowolagba6
1Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.
2Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
3Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
4Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
5Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
6Department of Oncology, Faculty of Radiology, Lagos State University, Nigeria.
*Corresponding Author: Damilare Alabi Akanbi, Department of Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Ibadan, Nigeria.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOANE.2026.07.016
Received: April 29, 2026
Published: June 01, 2026
Citation: Nkwocha IB, Akanbi DA, Akinyemi D, Ogunwale ET, Aremu IG, Ogunlola MW, Olowolagba OD. Neonatal Jaundice and the Developing Brain: Pathophysiology, Clinical Management, and Long-Term Neurological Outcome. SVOA Neurology 2026, 7:3, 107-123. doi.org/10.58624/ SVOANE.2026.07.016
Abstract
Neonatal jaundice, characterized by elevated serum bilirubin levels, is a common condition affecting newborns globally. While mild jaundice is often benign, severe hyperbilirubinemia poses a significant risk to neurological development. If left untreated, it can lead to irreversible brain damage, with lifelong implications for affected children. This review aims to examine the impact of neonatal jaundice on pediatric neurological outcomes, focusing on the pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, and long-term consequences. A comprehensive analysis of current literature was conducted, including clinical studies and systematic reviews. Emphasis was placed on understanding the neurological sequelae of neonatal jaundice and evaluating the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions. Findings indicate that severe neonatal jaundice is associated with neurological complications such as acute bilirubin encephalopathy and kernicterus. These conditions can result in motor impairments, hearing loss, speech delays, and cognitive dysfunction. Early diagnosis and interventions, such as phototherapy and exchange transfusion, have significantly reduced the incidence of severe outcomes. However, in low-resource settings, delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment remain substantial challenges, increasing the risk of permanent disability. Neonatal jaundice, if improperly managed, poses serious risks to pediatric neurological health. Timely intervention and improved screening protocols are essential to prevent long-term neurological damage. Further research is needed to explore the subtle neurodevelopmental effects and to enhance care strategies, especially in under-resourced regions. A multidisciplinary approach is crucial to mitigate these risks and improve outcomes for affected children.
Keywords: Neonatal jaundice, Pediatric neurology, Neurodevelopmental outcomes, Kernicterus, Newborn health, Neonatal complications
