The primary cause of bilirubin encephalopathy is severe hyperbilirubinemia, where the bilirubin levels in the blood are excessively high. This can occur due to a variety of reasons such as [hemolytic disease](https://) of the newborn, [prematurity](https://), blood type incompatibility, and certain genetic conditions. Ineffective feeding and dehydration can also exacerbate the condition.
