Antenatally detected liver and biliary pathology

Abstract

Liver and biliary pathology in the neonate are rare and include a broad range of structural, neoplastic, infectious, genetic, and metabolic diseases. While most conditions present postnatally, antenatal detection is increasing given recent advances in antenatal imaging capabilities. In certain structural or obstructive liver diseases, antenatal detection now proves essential to help guide treatment and prevent morbidity. We review the epidemiology, pathophysiology, common antenatal diagnostic findings, and recommendations for surgical liver and biliary pathology in the neonate.

Keywords: Antenatal diagnosis; Biliary atresia; Choledochal cyst; Fetal hepatic tumor; Gall bladder anomalies.