What condition is responsible for approximately half of the cases of cholestasis in infants?

Extrahepatic biliary atresia is responsible for approximately half of the cases of cholestasis in infants, making it a critical condition to recognize and manage. Biliary atresia is a congenital condition where the bile ducts outside the liver are malformed or absent, leading to a blockage that prevents bile from flowing from the liver to the intestine. This obstruction causes bile to accumulate in the liver, resulting in cholestasis, which can cause significant liver damage if not treated promptly.

Typically presenting in the first few weeks of life, symptoms may include jaundice, pale stools, dark urine, and abdominal distension. The early diagnosis and intervention are vital because surgical procedures, such as the Kasai procedure, aim to restore bile flow and improve liver function. Overall, understanding the implications of biliary atresia is important for pediatric practitioners, as it impacts the comprehensive care of affected infants and their long-term outcomes.