Question
My child was born half a month ago, and their face has a slightly yellowish tint, with slightly dry stools. I suspect it might be due to infant biliary atresia causing jaundice. What are the symptoms of jaundice caused by biliary atresia?
Answer
The symptoms of biliary atresia include persistent jaundice after birth, grayish-white stools, and in severe cases, may be accompanied by liver function abnormalities, ascites, and esophageal varices. When doctors palpate the abdomen, they may feel enlargement of the liver and spleen. Blood biochemical tests can show liver function abnormalities, and other causes need to be ruled out. Surgery is the key to treating biliary atresia, and it is best to undergo surgery within two months after birth; otherwise, the condition may progress to bile duct cirrhosis with almost no treatment opportunity.