Choledochal Cyst: Review of the Literature on Etiology and a Representative Case Study

Abstract

Choledochal cysts are fluid-filled dilations of the common bile duct or hepatic duct, which currently have an unknown etiology (Singham, Yoshida and Scudamore, 2009). The current ideas of the etiology signify that choledochal cysts are caused by a reflux of pancreatic juices into the common bile duct, which causes increased expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 and -2 and the formation of protein plugs (Babbitt, Starshak and Clemett, 1973; Mao, Tang and Ruan, 2008; Kaneko et al., 2007). The combination of these events causes increased intraluminal pressure and, consequently, cyst formation (Babbitt, Starshak and Clemett, 1973; Mao, Tang and Ruan, 2008; Kaneko et al., 2007). A case study of a 5 day old patient diagnosed with a choledochal cyst is discussed in order to raise the awareness of choledochal cysts as a cause of cholestatic jaundice in infants.