Alagille Syndrome

case study and literature review

Abstract

Alagille syndrome is an inherited autosomal dominant rare disease. It is characterized by the presence of progressive chronic cholestasis caused by hypoplasia of the bile ducts; vertebral, ocular and cardiac anomalies, and particular facial phenotype. Its differential diagnoses include infections, endocrine-metabolic diseases, biliary atresia and idiopathic causes. The prognosis of this syndrome is variable and depends on the degree of liver involvement and cardiovascular defects. The therapeutic approach is usually interdisciplinary and customized, focused on symptomatic control, prevention of malnutrition and fat-soluble vitamin deficiency.

We present the case of a 2-month-old infant in whom the most frequent causes of cholestasis were studied and to whom Alagille Syndrome was diagnosed. We hereby describe its therapeutic approach and follow-up.