B ile is a yellow-green fluid made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. From there, it flows through the common bile duct to the small intestine, where it aids in digesting and absorbing dietary fats, and fat-soluble vitamins. T he cause of biliary atresia is unknown. It is not contagious, so it cannot be passed from one child to another. It is not hereditary, nor can it be attributed to any specific aspect of prenatal care.
Researchers currently believe that some process causes inflammation and blockage of the bile ducts.
B iliary atresia is usually diagnosed during the first two months of life. S ince the symptoms of biliary atresia may also be experienced in other diseases, several tests are necessary to make a diagnosis. If the test results suggest biliary atresia, an operation is performed to examine the bile ducts and an x-ray is taken during the operation to determine whether the bile duct is blocked. I t is essential that the bile flow be established. Otherwise, the liver will suffer more damage, resulting in liver failure.