J Pediatr

Biliary atresia tied to increased rates of neurodevelopmental deficits, autism-related traits

June 5, 2025

Study details: This single-center, observational study surveyed 107 parents of children with biliary atresia (BA) under age 12 and performed detailed neurodevelopmental assessments in 50 children under 5 years. Autism-related traits were evaluated in eligible children using the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule. A reference group of 93 age- and sex-matched children, some with higher likelihood of neurodevelopmental conditions, was included for comparison.

Results: Parental concern for neurodevelopment was reported in 37% of cases, and 47% of children required support services. Children with BA under age 5 had significantly lower adaptive and cognitive skills compared with both lower- and higher-risk reference groups. Among children over 2 years, 30% met criteria for clinical or research diagnosis of autism. Earlier surgical intervention and more rapid jaundice clearance were associated with improved general neurodevelopment, but not with the presence of autistic traits.

Clinical impact: These findings highlight a high burden of both general and autism-related neurodevelopmental difficulties in children with BA, underscoring the need for enhanced surveillance and early intervention. Notably, the association between BA and autistic traits appears independent of disease management, suggesting a need for further research to inform clinical pathways and optimize long-term outcomes in this population.

Source:

Earl M, et al. (2025, May 28). J Pediatr. General and Autism-Related Neurodevelopmental Difficulties in Biliary Atresia. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40447135/