Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2025

Creation of Reversible Cholestatic Rat Model
Published on: May 21, 2011
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: Introduction and overview 2024
Wm Bill Hague1, Catherine Williamson2, Ulrich Beuers3
1Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, North Adelaide, Australia.
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) can be identified using total serum bile acid (TSBA) thresholds, aiding in managing stillbirth and preterm birth risks. Ursodeoxycholic acid may prevent preterm birth, and prior ICP warrants screening for hepatobiliary disease.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hepatology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
- High maternal total serum bile acids (TSBAs) are a key indicator.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish TSBA thresholds for identifying high-risk pregnancies.
- To evaluate ursodeoxycholic acid for preventing spontaneous preterm birth.
- To guide management for women with a history of ICP.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of non-fasting TSBA levels in relation to pregnancy outcomes.
- Review of data supporting ursodeoxycholic acid efficacy.
- Assessment of risks for hepatobiliary disease following ICP.
Main Results:
- Specific non-fasting TSBA thresholds correlate with stillbirth and preterm birth risks.
- Ursodeoxycholic acid shows potential in reducing spontaneous preterm birth.
- Previous ICP may increase susceptibility to future hepatobiliary conditions.
Conclusions:
- TSBA thresholds aid in risk stratification and intervention for ICP.
- Ursodeoxycholic acid is a potential therapeutic option for ICP.
- Screening for genetic and associated disorders is recommended for women with ICP history.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...
Acute Pancreatitis II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by rapid inflammation of the pancreas, often caused by factors like gallstone blockage or excessive alcohol consumption. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other hand, is a slow, progressive inflammation that may result from long-term alcohol abuse, obstructions in the pancreatic duct, or genetic factors.
The causes of acute pancreatitis include:
Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not...
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:

