Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia: Diagnostic Pitfalls in Prolonged Neonatal Jaundice

Abstract

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) is a genetic disorder that leads to cortisol deficiency. However, prolonged neonatal jaundice is a rare presentation of CAH. The pathophysiology of hyperbilirubinemia in CAH is still ill-defined. Plausible causes are related to the synthesis of bile, maturity of the liver and adrenal function. This case reported a neonate who presented with severe prolonged jaundice that lasted for more than a month. A short Synacthen test confirmed diagnosis of CAH. He was started on steroid replacement. He had regular follow-up under paediatric endocrinologist and primary care physician for long-term monitoring and overall health care. This case demonstrates the importance of recognizing the clinical and biochemical features of CAH for early detection and referral. Long-term follow-up and monitoring is necessary due to the risk of complications and side effects of medications. This is the first case of CAH presented with persistent hyperbilirubinemia to be reported from Malaysia. The case describes the difficult workup that has been encountered in the patient’s care and management.

Keywords

• congenital adrenal hyperplasia
• prolonged jaundice
• hyperbilirubinemia
• hyponatremia