Paediatric Liver Disease: Most Common Conditions And How To Reduce Their Risk?

Most liver diseases occur between the ages of 40 and 50. In fact, ageing has a significant impact on a person’s risk and prognosis of various liver diseases, including Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis C, and liver transplantation. However, this is not to say that younger people or children cannot develop liver diseases. 

According to a 2023 study published in the journal Hepatology International, cirrhosis is on the rise in children and adolescents worldwide, with factors like hepatitis C, NAFLD, and alcohol consumption as common contributors, especially in low and middle-income countries.

Also Read: Itchy Palms: A Sign of Liver Disease?

What Are Paediatric Liver Diseases?

Dr Sufla Saxena, HOD – Department of Paediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, defines paediatric liver disease as a range of disorders that affect the liver in infants, children, and adolescents.

These conditions can result from genetic, metabolic, infectious, or autoimmune factors, she says, adding, “While specific conditions vary in prevalence, collectively, liver diseases in children are significant and require timely diagnosis and management to prevent severe complications like liver failure.”

Common Liver Conditions In Children

Sharing some of the most common liver conditions in children, Dr Saxena lists:

Biliary atresia: It is a rare disease where bile ducts are blocked or absent, leading to liver damage and cirrhosis. It typically presents in the first few weeks of life.

Hepatitis: The condition translates to inflammation of the liver caused by viral infections (such as hepatitis A, B, and C), autoimmune conditions, or drug toxicity.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): This liver condition has become increasingly common in children due to rising obesity rates, as it involves fat accumulation in liver cells, potentially leading to inflammation and scarring.

Wilson’s disease: It is a genetic disorder which causes excessive copper buildup, damaging the liver and other organs.

Alagille syndrome: It is a genetic condition that affects the bile ducts, heart, eyes, and bones, causing chronic liver disease.

Symptoms Of Liver Diseases In Children

Here are some common symptoms of liver disease in children:

• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain
• Leg swelling
• Dark urine and pale stool
• Fatigue
• Poor appetite and weight loss
• Itchy skin
• Nausea and vomiting

What Puts Children At Risk Of Liver Problems?

Many factors can lead to an increased risk of paediatric liver disease. According to the American Liver Foundation (ALF), some paediatric liver diseases can occur due to autoimmune problems, in which a person’s own immune system attacks a part of the body. In addition, genetic diseases, which are usually inherited from one or both parents but may be a new mutation, such as Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC).

Other risk factors include a family history of liver disease, obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, infections with hepatitis viruses, and exposure to toxins.

Also Read: Your Legs Can Signal A Fatty Liver Disease: Note THIS Warning Sign

How To Reduce The Risk?

As a parent, if you want to protect your child and avoid chronic liver problems, here are some measures to take, as per Dr Saxena:

• Routine paediatric visits are necessary for the early detection of potential issues.
• Early detection of metabolic or genetic disorders.
• Limit exposure to harmful chemicals and medications.
• Promote regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight.
• Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Ensure vaccinations for hepatitis A and B are up-to-date.

[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own doctor if you or your child are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]