In the Spring 2008 Newsletter

Kernicterus Threatens Healthy Newborns
By Terrance J. Cirocco, Detroit, MI

INTRODUCTION
Jaundice occurs in most newborn infants. While most parents and attorneys have some personal experience with jaundiced newborns, the complication of kernicterus is extremely rare. This article will acquaint the medical malpractice practitioner with kernicterus and assist with the screening of potential kernicterus cases should they come across one’s desk.

KERNICTERUS AND JAUNDICE
The first link between high bilirubin levels and brain damage was established in the early 1950’s. Kernicterus was originally a pathologic diagnosis characterized by bilirubin staining of the brain stem nuclei and cerebellum. Presently, the diagnosis of kernicterus is used interchangeably with . . .

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CNS TRAUMA: IMAGING FINDINGS
By C. Douglas Phillips, M.D., FACR

Traumatic brain injury is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, with an estimated incidence of 95 per 100,000 population. Motor vehicle accidents, sports and leisure-related activities, falls, and assault are all common factors, and unfortunately, young adults are often involved. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has its highest incidence in young adults, aged 15 to 24 years. A high rate of patients who suffer traumatic brain injury die from their injuries. Considerable resources go into the emergent transport, evaluation, and treatment of these patients.

Spinal injuries also affect an often young and vital segment of the population. There have been a number of initiatives to gain the public support for spinal cord research, and a number of high-profile cases which have been in the spotlight. Complete spinal cord injuries remain a large problem in the entirety of traumatic injuries, and a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Rehabilitation and treatment of spinal cord injuries has achieved more insight into the pathology of cord injury, but little success in regaining function lost at the time of injury.

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This paper, available free to members of the Professional Negligence Section, was presented at the 2007 AAJ Annual Convention in Chicago. Copyright © 2007 American Association for Justice. Further reproduction of any kind is prohibited. For more information, call AAJ Education at (800) 622-1791. To purchase other papers, visit the AAJ Exchange.

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