What is Primary Biliary Cholangitis?
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease that leads to the gradual destruction of bile ducts within the liver. This process disrupts the flow of bile, which can cause damage to liver cells and lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.
What Causes Primary Biliary Cholangitis?
The exact cause of PBC is not fully understood, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors, such as infections or exposure to certain chemicals, may trigger the disease.
What are the Symptoms of Primary Biliary Cholangitis?
Early stages of PBC often present no symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include fatigue, itching, dry eyes and mouth, jaundice, abdominal pain, swollen spleen, bone and joint pain, darkened skin, diarrhea, and edema. Advanced stages can lead to complications like liver scarring and failure.
How is Primary Biliary Cholangitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves blood tests to check for specific antibodies (anti-mitochondrial antibodies), liver function tests, imaging studies like ultrasound, and sometimes liver biopsy. These tests help assess liver damage and rule out other conditions.
How is Primary Biliary Cholangitis Treated?
Treatment focuses on slowing the disease's progression and managing symptoms. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid and obeticholic acid can improve liver function. For itching, cholestyramine and antihistamines may be prescribed. In advanced cases, liver transplantation may be considered.
