Biliary atresia

Biliary atresia is a serious liver disease in newborns. The bile ducts are blocked or absent, preventing bile from reaching the intestines. How it affects the body Bile buildup damages the liver and can lead to cirrhosis. This interferes with fat digestion and waste removal. Symptoms Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes. Pale, clay-colored stools. Dark urine from bilirubin buildup. Poor growth or difficulty gaining weight. Enlarged spleen in some cases. Causes The exact cause is unknown. It is congenital, present at birth or developing shortly after. Diagnosis Physical exam and imaging tests, such as abdominal ultrasound. Surgical confirmation may be needed if tests are inconclusive. Treatment Liver transplant: Required if the Kasai procedure fails.