 | This article needs more reliable medical references for verification or relies too heavily on primary sources .(March 2022) |
| Vanishing bile duct syndrome | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Ductopenia |
| Specialty | Gastroenterology |
Vanishing bile duct syndrome is a loose collection of diseases leading to hepatic bile duct injury and eventual ductopenia. [1]
The presentation is dependent upon the underlying cause. The course can be rapid or chronic.
In fetal and neonatal life, the ductal plates are remodeled. The malformations can be atretic or fibrocystic.
Bile duct injury and loss can result from autoimmune destruction. T cells recognize biliary epithelial cell antigens causing injury and eventual atresia.
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Treatment is dependent upon the underlying cause. Treatment is supportive as it is not possible to induce regrowth of lost ducts.