Stool chart key to detection of liver diseases in newborns
Lucknow: Experts at Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences (RMLIMS) emphasised importance of raising awareness about a '
stool chart
' as a simple and effective tool for identifying severe
liver diseases in newborns
. The recommendation came during Mid-Term National Conference of the Indian Society of
Pediatric Gastroenterology
, Hepatology, and Nutrition held at the institute.
The stool chart, which features shapes, sizes and colours of stools, is internationally recognised and highly effective in identifying liver conditions. Experts stressed importance of examining colour of a newborn's stool before discharging them from the hospital. Stool chart can help rule out Neonatal and Infantile Cholestasis (also known as infant jaundice), a condition where bile flow from liver is blocked, potentially leading to serious liver damage.
Pediatric hepatologist at RMLIMS, Dr Piyush Upadhyay, explained that stool chart was a visual guide designed to help healthcare providers and parents track changes in colour and consistency of a baby's stool. If it matches any colour that indicates liver problems, such as pale or white, it can be an early warning of liver disorders. He added, "If parents are not sure about how to read the chart or make decisions, they should be encouraged to bring a stool sample during the baby's first vaccination, typically between 45 to 90 days. This simple step can help detect serious conditions like Biliary Atresia, a leading cause of Cholestasis, at an early stage.
Biliary Atresia
is a severe condition in which ducts carrying bile from the liver are either blocked or absent. If not detected early, it can lead to liver failure and may require a transplant if detected five to six months late. Unfortunately, in Uttar Pradesh, this service is not widely available and many children do not survive."
Dr Seema Agarwal, also from RMLIMS, emphasised that if a baby's stool appears white, it should be considered a warning sign. Additionally, if the stool or urine doesn't leave stains on clothes, it could indicate a potential liver issue. Dr Seema Alam from ILBS Delhi pointed out that early detection of liver conditions leads to better treatment outcomes, with some cases even being treatable through simple changes in the baby's diet.
Director of RMLIMS, Prof C M Singh, said this national conference was first of its kind to be hosted by the institute. "Liver problems in children are increasing rapidly; it's crucial to prioritise the early diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases," he added.
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