Statistical Analysis of Risk Factors Affecting the Prognosis of Biliary Atresia in Infants

Abstract

Biliary atresia often neglected as normal transition neonatal jaundice reports high incidence in Pakistan in contrast to worldwide statistics. In contrast to data reported worldwide high mortality and morbidity rate of Biliary Atresia was reported within the Faisalabad region of Pakistan which indicates poor disease management. To understand the exact etiology of this disease, present study undertook a research initiative to define unique causes and clinical risk factors associated to Biliary atresia which help in early diagnosis. We intended to find strongly associated risk factors which distinguish it from early onset normal transition jaundice and suggest good prognostic measures for disease management. Logistic Regression and Pearson chi square test reports high incidence rate of Biliary atresia in newly born baby boys (64%) than in female peers. Only 27% of survival rate of this disease was recorded. Unique association of disease with mother child blood group incompatibility (P <0.05) and other simultaneous neonatal infection (P <0.05) shown to contribute significantly to high neonatal death toll (72.8%). Moreover, mother health status (P<0.05) and maternal infection like diabetes and/or hypothyroidism (P<0.05) during gestation period are also significant contributing factors to outcome of Biliary atresia. Based on findings we suggest careful examination of neonates if any of the reported risk factors is observed in first 3 days of birth to manage Biliary Atresia. Study also emphasizes on the importance of maternal health care and proper disease management of maternal infections that otherwise predispose neonates at risk of health disorder.