Question
My friend’s child was born prematurely and spent time in the ICU. After discharge, the baby’s entire body turned yellow. The hospital doctor suggested an MRI, but my friend is unsure if it can be done. I want to ask, does neonatal jaundice affect brain MRI?
Answer
Parents, the baby can undergo nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. Severe kernicterus can affect the baby’s intelligence. However, if detected early and treated promptly, the jaundice level will be less severe. The specific effects depend on the current kernicterus level and the extent of intracranial hemorrhage. Under current medical conditions, there is usually no particularly significant impact on the baby. It should be noted that MRI is a type of radiation examination that can cause radioactive harm to the body. However, the amount of radiation exposure from occasional examinations is minimal, and parents need not be overly concerned.