Michigan Birth Injury Attorneys For Intrahepatic Cholestasis Of Pregnancy
Expectant mothers facing intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) endure intense discomfort and deep fear for their baby’s safety. This serious liver disease increases the risk of fetal distress and preterm birth.
McKeen & Associates, PC, a respected Michigan law firm, is committed to helping families affected by obstetric cholestasis. With offices in Detroit, South Haven and Southfield, Michigan, and Ottawa, Ohio, our attorneys help you hold negligent medical providers accountable. We understand the complexities that birth injury cases present and fight for justice across the state.
Understanding Intrahepatic Cholestasis Of Pregnancy
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is a condition that typically arises in the third trimester when pregnancy hormones interfere with liver function, slowing or stopping the flow of bile. This leads to elevated bile acid levels, which can cross the placenta and harm the developing baby.
The exact cause remains unclear, but risk factors include a personal or family history of liver disease, carrying multiple babies and prior ICP diagnoses. Women over 35 and those with hepatitis C may also face increased risk. Monitoring serum bile acids is essential for early detection and management.
If the medical team fails to diagnose or manage ICP and the baby or mother suffers harm, the family may have grounds for a medical malpractice claim.
Symptoms And Diagnosis Of ICP
The hallmark symptom of ICP is severe itching, especially on the hands and feet, often worsening at night. Other signs may include jaundice, dark urine, pale stools, fatigue and nausea.
Diagnosis involves blood tests to assess serum bile acids and liver function. A confirmed diagnosis typically requires bile acid levels of 10 micromol/L or higher.
Early detection allows for timely treatment, often with ursodeoxycholic acid, which helps reduce bile acids and improve outcomes.
ICP Brings The Risk Of Complications
While ICP rarely causes lasting harm to the mother, it can lead to serious complications for the baby. These include fetal distress, preterm birth, meconium aspiration and even stillbirth. In rare cases, mothers with ICP may experience vitamin K deficiency, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Prompt treatment and delivery planning are critical to reduce the risks to the infant and the mother.
Speak With A Lawyer For Free
If your family was impacted by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, use our online contact form or call us at 313-524-8570 today for a free consultation with a skilled Michigan attorney. We charge no fees unless we win your case.