What is Pediatric Hepatology?

Pediatric hepatology is a subspecialty within pediatric gastroenterology dedicated to the study, diagnosis, and treatment of liver diseases in children and adolescents. This includes conditions such as hepatitis, liver failure, congenital liver diseases, metabolic disorders affecting the liver, and biliary tract diseases. Early detection and appropriate management of these conditions are crucial to prevent long-term complications and ensure the well-being of young patients.

Pediatric Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis (A, B, C, D, E) can affect children and cause liver inflammation. Additionally, there are autoimmune hepatitis cases, in which the immune system attacks the liver itself. Furthermore, multiple viruses that frequently affect children can lead to elevated liver enzymes and cause mild secondary hepatitis. It is essential to consult a specialist to differentiate between the various causes.

✔ Warning signs: loss of appetite, nausea, dark urine, and extreme fatigue.

Prolonged Jaundice in Newborns

It is normal for newborns to develop jaundice (a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes) within the first few days of life. However, if this condition persists for more than two weeks, it may be related to liver problems such as biliary atresia or metabolic disorders.

✔ Warning signs: yellowish skin color and dark urine.

What Liver Diseases Can Affect Children?

Biliary Atresia

Biliary atresia is a rare but serious condition that occurs when a baby's bile ducts are blocked or absent, preventing bile from leaving the liver. If not detected and treated in time, it can lead to liver failure. Rapid medical attention is required to avoid complications. In cases where liver failure develops, the child must be referred to specialized centers for this condition.

✔ Warning sign: pale or whitish stools in babies.

Pediatric Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver due to poor diet, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. In advanced cases, it can progress to liver inflammation or fibrosis.

✔ Warning sign: fatigue, weight gain, and abnormal liver function test results.

• Yellowish skin and eyes that do not fade.

• Pale or whitish stools.

• Very dark urine.

• Unexplained abdominal swelling.

• Unexplained weight loss or persistent fatigue.

• Blood test abnormalities in liver enzymes.

When should I consult a specialist?

Pediatric hepatology is essential for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of liver diseases in children. As parents, it is crucial to be attentive to any warning signs and seek a specialist if there are any concerns.

The liver plays a vital role in our children's health, and with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many liver diseases can be successfully managed.

If you have any concerns about your child's liver health, do not hesitate to consult a pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology specialist.

The well-being of the little ones is our top priority!