Preface to topic collection: biliary atresia | Synapse
March 26, 2026Open Access
Preface to topic collection: biliary atresia
Key Points
To provide an overview of biliary atresia and its clinical history.
Brief historical review of biliary atresia
Discussion of clinical signs and symptoms
Outline of the disease recognition process
Biliary atresia recognized as a distinct clinical condition since 1891
Important historical context provided for understanding BA
Clinical implications acknowledged for diagnosis and treatment
Abstract
Introduction Biliary atresia (BA) is not a new disease; its clinical symptoms and signs were first recognized as a distinct entity in 1891 by John Thompson, a physician in Edinburgh, Scotland.