"Post-Kasai Portoenterostomy Cholangitis: What Have We Learnt So Far?"

Post-Kasai portoenterostomy (KPE) cholangitis is one of the most common complications that has a negative impact on liver function and native liver survival. Early diagnosis and judicious empiric antimicrobial management are, therefore, important to prevent further liver damage and decompensation. However, there is no consensus regarding the standard definition of post-KPE cholangitis, and established guidelines on evaluation and management are also lacking. Metagenomic next-generation sequencing, a new molecular diagnostic technique, has the potential for detecting broader spectrum of pathogens, especially in blood culture-negative patients. Antibiotic prophylaxis to prevent cholangitis has been widely used, but questions over the choice of antibiotics, route of administration, and optimal duration remain unsettled. The available evidence on the efficacy of antibiotic prophylaxis in preventing cholangitis has shown conflicting results. This review offers a summary of the current research on advances in diagnostic approaches, including molecular techniques, and therapeutic challenges in managing intractable cholangitis.