Neonatal Cholestasis

Neonatal cholestasis is a serious liver disorder that affects newborn babies. It can cause life-threatening complications and long-term health issues if left untreated. The condition is relatively rare but is present in around 1 in every 10,000 births across the world. Early diagnosis and effective management are essential for successful treatment which can reduce or even eliminate the risks associated with this condition. With proper medical attention, neonatal cholestasis need not be a major concern for parents of newborns.

What is neonatal cholestasis?

Neonatal cholestasis is a condition that affects newborn babies, where their bile flow is blocked. This blockage can occur in the liver, the bile ducts or both, leading to a build-up of toxic substances in the blood and body tissues. Symptoms may include jaundice, pale stools, itchy skin, a swollen abdomen and poor growth. If not treated quickly, it can lead to more serious complications such as liver failure or cirrhosis. Treatment includes medications to help reduce itching and improve bile flow, while surgery may also be necessary in some cases.

What are the causes of neonatal cholestasis?

• Neonatal cholestasis is a condition characterized by the build-up of bile in the liver, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice).
• The most common cause of neonatal cholestasis is bile duct obstruction, which can be caused by genetic disorders like Alagille Syndrome, or by medications like erythromycin.
• Other possible causes of neonatal cholestasis include metabolic disorders like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, infections like cytomegalovirus, and genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis.
• In some cases, the cause of neonatal cholestasis is unknown.

What are the symptoms of neonatal cholestasis?

Neonatal cholestasis has three main symptoms:

• Jaundice, which causes yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes
• Itchiness, which can be severe and require medical treatment
• Poor weight gain or failure to thrive
• Additional symptoms can include:
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stools
  • Nausea and vomiting
• Some cases may present no symptoms at all

When should one see a doctor for neonatal cholestasis?

If a newborn baby has yellowing of the skin, eyes, or whites of the eyes; dark urine; pale stools; fever; irritability; or difficulty feeding, parents should see a doctor right away as these can be signs of neonatal cholestasis. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment. A doctor may order certain tests such as blood tests, ultrasounds or liver biopsies to diagnose neonatal cholestasis. If any of these symptoms appear in the first few days or weeks after birth, parents should seek medical advice as soon as possible. Early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment and better long-term outcomes.

What are the risk factors for neonatal cholestasis?

Neonatal cholestasis has several risk factors:

• Genetic mutations causing a metabolic defect
• Prematurity
• Maternal drug use during pregnancy
• Infections in the baby
• No specific cause can be found in some cases
• Advanced gestational age
• Low birth weight
• Multiple pregnancies
• Exposure to certain toxins
• Infants born to mothers with a history of autoimmune diseases

Conclusion

Neonatal cholestasis is a serious condition that affects newborn infants. It is important to identify it as early as possible to ensure the best possible outcome for the baby. To diagnose neonatal cholestasis, doctors will often carry out lab tests, ultrasounds and physical examinations. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most babies with the condition can make a full recovery without long-term issues. Parents need to be aware of the signs and symptoms associated with this condition so that they can seek medical help immediately if any arise. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to achieving the best outcome for babies with neonatal cholestasis.

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