Bile Acids (3a-hydroxy bile acids)

Clinical Chemistry

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Description

In England, obstetric cholestasis ( also referred to as intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy ) affects 0.7% of pregnancies in multiethnic populations and 1.2-1.5% of women of Indian-Asian or Pakistani-Asian origin. Prevalence is influenced by genetic and environmental factors and varies between populations worldwide. Obstetric cholestasis is a multifactorial condition of pregnancy characterised by pruritus in the absence of a skin rash with abnormal liver enzymes or bile acids which don't have an alternative cause, and pruritis and blood tests resolve after delivery. Other causes of pruritus and abnormal LFTs should be sought. The clinical importance of obstetric cholestasis lies in the potential fetal risks, which may include spontaneous preterm birth, iatrogenic preterm birth and fetal death. There can also be maternal morbidity in association with the intense pruritus and consequent sleep deprivation. Pre-eclampsia and acute fatty liver of pregnancy are pregnancy-specific causes of abnormal LFTs that might form part of the differential diagnosis in atypical or early cases. [RCOG Guideline 2011].

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Indications

Suspected intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. LFT should be requested when bile acid is requested.

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Sample Type

Serum, SST/Gel, minimum 2ml ( 1ml separated serum )

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Reference Range

Reference ranges are provided on the report. Alternatively, please contact the laboratory for current ranges.

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Turnaround Time

Within 3 days

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Testing Frequency

As required

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