[Benign recurring intrahepatic cholestasis--a case report]

The diagnosis of benign recurrent intrahepatic cholestasis was made in a 40 year old female. Seven episodes of jaundice persisting up to 6 months in lengths lead to 3 laparotomies, numerous peritoneoscopies and needle biopsies of the liver. Elevation of conjugated serum bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase levels and histopathological confirmation of intrahepatic cholestasis without cholangitis were the main characteristics during the episodes of cholestatic jaundice. However, hepatic histology and liver function were normal in remission periods. Drug induced cholestasis was ruled out by careful history. A sister also suffered from 4 episodes of intrahepatic cholestasis. The etiology of the disease is probably of a genetic origin. The pathogenesis remains unclear. There is no specific treatment to prevent or shorten the occurrence of cholestatic episodes. The patients are advised to avoid pregnancy and oral contraceptives, since both will induce icteric phases.