Protocols of Investigation of Neonatal Cholestasis—A Critical Appraisal

Neonatal cholestasis (NC) starts during the first three months of life and comprises extrahepatic and intrahepatic groups of diseases, some of which have high morbimortality rates if not timely identified and treated. Prolonged jaundice, clay-colored or acholic stools, and choluria in an infant indi...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Patricia Quelhas, Joana Jacinto, Carlos Cerski, Rui Oliveira, Jorge Oliveira, Elisa Carvalho, Jorge dos Santos
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2022-10-01
Series:Healthcare
Subjects:
Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9032/10/10/2012
Description
Summary:Neonatal cholestasis (NC) starts during the first three months of life and comprises extrahepatic and intrahepatic groups of diseases, some of which have high morbimortality rates if not timely identified and treated. Prolonged jaundice, clay-colored or acholic stools, and choluria in an infant indicate the urgent need to investigate the presence of NC, and thenceforth the differential diagnosis of extra- and intrahepatic causes of NC. The differential diagnosis of NC is a laborious process demanding the accurate exclusion of a wide range of diseases, through the skillful use and interpretation of several diagnostic tests. A wise integration of clinical-laboratory, histopathological, molecular, and genetic evaluations is imperative, employing extensive knowledge about each evaluated disease as well as the pitfalls of each diagnostic test. Here, we review the difficulties involved in correctly diagnosing the cause of cholestasis in an affected infant.
ISSN:2227-9032