pediatrics
Neonatal Cholestasis
Introduction
Cholestasis is failure of bilirubin secretion, resulting in conjugated Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia and jaundice. There are numerous causes, which are identified by laboratory testing, hepatobiliary scan, and, sometimes, liver biopsy and surgery. Treatment depends on cause. Cholestasis occurs in 1/2500 full-term infants. It is defined as direct bilirubin > 1 mg/dL (> 17.1 micromole/L). Cholestasis is never normal and warrants evaluation. 