Successful heterotopic segmental liver transplantation from a live donor to a patient with Alagille syndrome.

Alagille syndrome is characterized by a paucity of bile ducts in the liver. The syndrome is associated with some or all the features of chronic cholestasis, cardiac disease, skeletal abnormalities, ocular defects and a distinctive facial appearance. The most common finding is chronic cholestasis, which causes intractable pruritus, xanthoma, deficiency of certain metabolic nutrients and growth retardation. Cardiac abnormalities are the most common cause of death in these patients. It is unusual to see the clinical picture of hepatic failure resulting in cirrhosis and requiring transplantation, but liver transplantation is indicated in Alagille syndrome patients who have chronic cholestasis. If the disease is diagnosed in childhood, transplantation can improve significantly the patient's prognosis and the quality of life. In recent years, auxiliary liver transplantation has gained popularity for treating both acute and chronic liver disease. Heterotopic segmental liver transplantation is an alternative treatment modality for patients who do not require native liver removal. Individuals with Alagille syndrome are good candidates for this type of treatment. J Pediatr Surg 36:667-671. Copyright 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company.