EXPERIENCE WITH NEEDLE BIOPSY OF THE LIVER IN INFANTS AND CHILDREN

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Abstract
Fifty Patients, varying in ages from 19 days to 10 years, were studied by needle biopsy of the liver. Histological study of the tissue helped (1) to establish the status of the liver in Banti's syndrome prior to surgery, (2) to establish the diagnosis in some patients with enlargement of the liver, (3) in the differential diagnosis of jaundice occurring in the neonatal period, (4) to establish the extent of liver involvement in certain systemic diseases, and (5) to determine, periodically, the status of the liver for prognostic purposes. Examples of each of these categories are given. The technique is discussed and the ease with which the procedure may be performed without general anesthesia in infants who have not yet reached the "fear reaction" age is pointed out. Fifty-nine biopsies were performed and there were no complications. The only contraindication to the procedure is thought to be an increased bleeding tendency which, in the judgment of a mature operator, might significantly increase the possibility of hemorrhage. It is felt that needle biopsy of the liver is a useful adjunct for diagnosis and study in infants and children, and when used with discretion is safe enough to merit favorable consideration.
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