Biliary Atresia
- Home
- Pediatric Liver Disease
- Biliary Atresia
Overview
Biliary Atresia is a rare but serious liver condition that affects infants, where the bile ducts inside or outside the liver are blocked or absent. This blockage prevents bile—a digestive fluid—from draining from the liver to the intestines, causing bile to build up in the liver. This buildup leads to liver damage, scarring, and if untreated, liver failure.
How Common is Biliary Atresia?
Biliary Atresia occurs in about 1 in every 10,000 to 15,000 live births worldwide. It is the most common reason for liver transplantation in children.
What Causes Biliary Atresia?
The exact cause of biliary atresia is unknown. It is not inherited but may be related to inflammation or damage to the bile ducts during fetal development or shortly after birth. Some cases may be linked to viral infections or immune system abnormalities.
Who is at Risk for Biliary Atresia?
- Biliary Atresia affects newborn infants, typically presenting within the first two months of life.
- It occurs worldwide and affects both boys and girls equally.
- There are no known racial or geographic predilections.
What Are the Symptoms of Biliary Atresia?
Symptoms usually appear within the first few weeks of life and include:
Yellowing of the skin and eyes that persists beyond two weeks after birth.
Due to excess bilirubin being excreted in the urine.
Because bile is not reaching the intestines.
How is Biliary Atresia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Blood tests: To check liver function and bilirubin levels.
- Ultrasound and imaging studies: To evaluate bile ducts and liver structure.
- Liver biopsy: To assess liver damage and inflammation.
- Cholangiogram: A specialized test that visualizes the bile ducts to confirm the diagnosis.
Early diagnosis is critical for timely treatment.
How is Biliary Atresia Treated?
- Surgery (Kasai procedure): A surgery performed to bypass the blocked bile ducts and restore bile flow. It is most effective when done within the first 2 months of life.
- Supportive care: Including nutritional support, vitamin supplementation, and management of symptoms.
- Liver transplantation: Many children eventually require a liver transplant, especially if the Kasai procedure is unsuccessful or if liver damage progresses.
What is the Outlook for Children with Biliary Atresia?
With early surgery, many children can improve bile flow and delay liver damage. However, biliary atresia often leads to progressive liver disease, and liver transplantation remains the definitive treatment for long-term survival and quality of life.
How Can Liver Transplantation Portal Help You?
Liver Transplantation Portal connects families affected by biliary atresia to expert pediatric hepatologists and transplant centers. We offer personalized support from diagnosis to transplant, ensuring your child receives timely, expert care.
Why Choose Liver Transplantation Portal?
Our platform is dedicated to guiding families through the complex journey of biliary atresia. With access to top specialists and transplant services, Liver Transplantation Portal provides compassionate, expert-driven care tailored to your child’s needs.
Contact us today to learn more about biliary atresia and how we can help your family.