Evolving Concepts in Etiology of Biliary Atresia: Insights and Perspectives from India.

Abstract

Introduction: Biliary atresia (BA) is a potentially fatal newborn cholestatic disease. It is a rapidly advancing fibro-obliterative cholangiopathy that leads to liver failure and death if not treated early. The well-known multihit hypothesis proposes that viral or chemical disruption to the biliary epithelium triggers an immune-mediated inflammatory response, resulting in fibrosis and blockage of the intra and extrahepatic biliary systems. Methods: In recent years, several papers have noticed an upsurge in many aspects of BA, particularly its etiopathogenesis, which has opened a vista of various probable mechanisms currently being examined. This review brings them together with an emphasis on reflecting current scientific views for those interested in this illness. Conclusions: Among the different etiological factors proposed for BA, viruses and immune-mediated injury are the strongest contenders as contributors to the disease onset and pathogenesis.