Question
After 44 days of hospitalization in the neonatal ward, a 32-week premature infant was discharged with a normal B-ultrasound. At the time of discharge, the total bile acid level was 89.9. One week later, the total bile acid level was found to be 97. What could this situation be?
Answer
This situation could be due to malnutrition caused by preterm birth or intrauterine infection. After excluding hereditary metabolic diseases, dynamic monitoring of bile acids and hearing screening are necessary. This is related to the incomplete development of the liver function in premature infants. If the B-ultrasound examination is normal, rechecking the bilirubin and bile acid levels is recommended. If needed, consider administering hepatoprotective and nutritional support medications systematically.