The accumulation of bile pigment in the basal ganglia is termed________________?
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Answer: B. Kernicterus
Explanation
Kernicterus involves the pathological deposition of unconjugated bilirubin within deep gray matter brain structures. The basal ganglia and brainstem are particularly vulnerable to toxic levels of lipid-soluble bilirubin. This severe condition causes permanent neurological damage and motor dysfunction in affected newborn infants. Bilirubin is a yellow breakdown product resulting from normal heme catabolism in the human body. Neonates often have immature liver enzymes unable to conjugate bilirubin efficiently leading to hyperbilirubinemia. Unconjugated bilirubin crosses the developing blood-brain barrier because it is highly soluble in lipids.
Pediatricians monitor newborn jaundice carefully and use phototherapy to prevent toxic accumulation in the brain. Preventing kernicterus is a primary objective in the management of neonatal hemolytic disease. Neurological sequelae from bilirubin toxicity include cerebral palsy and sensorineural hearing loss. Jaundice describes the general yellow discoloration of skin and sclera without specifying brain tissue involvement. Haemosiderosis refers to the accumulation of excess iron pigment within tissues rather than bilirubin deposits. Stating all of the above is incorrect because only kernicterus specifies basal ganglia involvement.
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