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Symptoms of Liver Diseases in Infants

According to the American Liver Foundation, approximately 15,000 children are hospitalized with liver diseases or disorders each year, and biliary atresia (damage of the bile ducts) is a common condition that affects one infant in every 15,000 live births. The Children's Liver Disease Foundation states that there are 100 different liver diseases that affect children and adults. If your infant demonstrates any of the following symptoms, contact your child's pediatrician or doctor for consultation.

  1. Liver Function

    • The liver is the largest organ in the human body. It forms numerous functions as it keeps the body working correctly. Functions include the elimination of toxins from the blood, infection control, and the manufacturing of bile to assist in the absorption of fats and fat-soluble vitamins.

    Jaundice Symptom

    • When the liver is not functioning properly, a build-up of bilirubin in the bloodsteam can cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Jaundice is often the first noticeable sign of liver disease, and could possibly be the only symptom.

    Portal Hypertension Symptom

    • Portal hypertension is the uncommonly high blood pressure in the vein that brings blood from the intestine to the liver, called the portal vein. This condition could result in the development of new blood vessels that connect blood flow from the intestine to the general circulation, without going through the liver. Symptoms include abdominal cavity distention and bleeding of the varicose veins towards the bottom of the esophagus and in the stomach lining.

    Enlarged Abdomen Symptom

    • An increase in the size of the abdomen due to swelling can be associated with liver disease. This swelling typically occurs because of an enlarged liver or spleen, or increased amount of fluid in the abdomen.

    Itching Symptom

    • Excessive itching might be experienced when there is a collection of bile in the body. Itching can occur anywhere on the body, but is commonly felt on the face, in the ear canals, and on the soles of the feet. Maintaining hydration of the skin and keeping the child's fingernails short may prevent further damage to the skin.

    Liver Disease Diagnosis

    • When a physician diagnoses liver disease, the symptoms are taken into consideration as well as the performance of a physical examination. A liver biopsy, liver enzyme tests, an ultrasound, or a CT scan may also be used for accurate diagnosing. Symptoms vary from child to child, which can make it hard to diagnose.

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