Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis: A Rare Cause of Cirrhosis in Young Adult Patients

Hepatic cirrhosis is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. An unusual case of cirrhosis and portal hypertension in an 18-year-old patient secondary to Progressive Intrahepatic Cholestasis is discussed. The clinical and biochemical findings are discussed and a clinical approach to determining the underlying etiology of cirrhosis is outlined. Significant complications of portal hypertension include ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis, hepatorenal syndrome, varices, and hepatic encephalopathy. A clinical approach to these complications of cirrhosis is presented. Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC) is a rare congenital metabolic abnormality. There are 3 subtypes and Type 3 PFIC commonly presents in late adolescence and early adulthood. Clinical and laboratory findings as well as management for the condition are described.