Cholestasis in Infancy.

Jaundice is a key manifestation of hepatobiliary disease in all age groups. Jaundice is a common finding in the first 2 weeks after birth, occurring in 2.4% to 15% of newborns. The neonatal liver is at increased susceptibility to cholestasis, with an incidence ranging from 1 in 2,500 to 1 in 5,000 live births. Etiologies vary, but the most common is biliary atresia. In 2004, the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition published guidelines for the evaluation of cholestasis that clearly stated any infant with jaundice persisting beyond age 2 weeks (3 weeks in breast-fed infants with an otherwise normal history and physical examination) should be evaluated with a fractionated serum bilirubin level. Prompt evaluation, diagnosis, and intervention are vital to optimize timely intervention and improve clinical outcomes. This article discusses the etiology, diagnosis and evaluation of cholestatis in infants. [Pediatr Ann. 2016;45(12):e414-e419.]. Copyright 2016, SLACK Incorporated.