Bile is a liquid that helps with digestion and the absorption of fats. Bile is made in the liver and moves through bile ducts into the intestine. Cholestasis is a problem with the flow of bile from the liver to the intestine. It can occur if the liver can’t produce enough bile or if the bile ducts are blocked.
Cholestasis is a rare condition in children. Pregnant women can also get cholestasis, but it usually goes away on its own after birth. Having cholestasis during pregnancy does not increase your baby’s risk for the condition, though it can increase the risk for preterm birth and some other problems.
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What are the signs and symptoms of cholestasis?
Common symptoms in children may include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark yellow or brown urine
- Gray or white-colored stool
- Delayed growth or poor weight gain
- Itchy skin
- Nausea or vomiting
What causes cholestasis?
Cholestasis can have two causes:
- Hepatocellular: a problem with the production of bile in the liver
- Obstructive: blockage of the bile ducts
The following conditions increase the risk of cholestasis:
- Biliary atresia
- Alagille syndrome
- Cystic fibrosis
- Hepatitis A, B or C
In some cases, children who are taking certain medicines or getting parenteral nutrition may also develop cholestasis.
How is cholestasis treated?
Treatment for cholestasis will depend on the cause. Treatments may include both non-surgical and surgical options.
- Your child’s doctor may suggest a special diet to help your child gain weight.
- Medicine can help relieve itching.
- If your child has chronic liver disease, your health care team will help manage the condition to keep your child’s liver as healthy as possible.
- If your child has biliary atresia, they may need surgery called Kasai portoenterostomy to help drain the bile ducts.
- In some cases, children with severe liver disease may need a liver transplant.