Definition:
Neonatal hepatitis also known as perinatal hepatitis is a rare fulminant liver disease. It is characterized by extremely excessive deposition of iron in the liver, pancreas, endocrine glands, and heart. It is a life threatening condition wherein death is common during the fetal or infant stage.
Treatment:
The goal of treatment for Neonatal Hepatitis is to prevent further liver damage and prevent or treat complications. In some cases, a blood or fresh plasma transfusion may be necessary. Portacaval anastomosis is another alternative with the aim to relieve portal hypertension.
There is still no effective treatment for neonatal hepatitis except for immediate liver transplantation.
There are also supportive methods including supplemental vitamins like Vitamins A, B complex, D and K to make up for the inability of the liver to gather them. The most essential measure is to rest, have moderate exercise and prevent exposure to infections.
Symptoms and Signs:
Neonatal hepatitis presents the following symptoms:
* Bile Duct obstruction
* Yellowness of the skin, sclera of the eye, mucous membrane and excretions brought about by hyperbilirubinemia (Jaundice)
* Pale stool
* Dark discoloration of the urine
* Itching
* Enlarged liver
* Delayed growth
* Irritability
* Portal hypertension or high blood pressure occurring in the veins leading to the liver.
Causes:
The cause of neonatal hepatitis is still not yet known and established.
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