Chronic cholestasis


DESCRIPTION

Impairment of bile formation and/or bile flow which may present with pruritis and/or jaundice. It is classified as intrahepatic (e.g. chronic hepatitis, paucity of bile ducts) or extrahepatic (e.g. biliary atresia).

GENERAL AND SUPPORTIVE MEASURES

Diet supplemented with medium-chain triglycerides.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

For pruritus of cholestasis:

  • Colestyramine, oral, 240 mg/kg/day in 3 divided doses with meals.
    • Mix with water or other fluids.
    • Other medications should be given 1 hour before or 4-6 hours after colestyramine use.

For sedation:
Chlorphenamine, oral, 0.1 mg/kg/dose up to 6 hourly.