Treatment
Unfortunately, and since the cause of Alagille syndrome is genetic, there is no cure for the condition. However, most of its manifestations can be controlled either medically or surgically. Medical care includes:
- Medications to decrease itching and pruritis, such as hydrazine.
- Giving fat soluble vitamins, such as vitamin A, D, E, and K to compensate for deficiency.
- For the treatment of stagnation of bile acid, and the resultant jaundice and vitamin deficiencies, artificial bile acids are given such as Urso deoxycholic acid. They act to prevent stone formation and improve bile flow.
- Other medications can decrease the absorption of bile salts to reduce symptoms of pruritis such as maralixibat.
- After screening for cardiac and vascular problems, such conditions can be managed medically or surgically by the relevant specialists. Although hypertension due to renal artery stenosis is resistant to medications, some antihypertensive medications may be tried first.
- One of the commonest complications of heart problems is bacterial endocarditis, which is a severe bacterial infection of the lining of the heart and heart valves. It can be managed by aggressive antibiotic therapy and antibiotics can be given for protection against future attacks.
- Vaccinations should be given to children with the condition, to protect them against infections, as they are usually more susceptible.
