Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
Description
A long-term liver disease in which the bile ducts in the liver are slowly destroyed. When the bile ducts are damaged, bile can back up in the liver and cause inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis) over time.
Common Symptoms
- Many people have no symptoms in the early stages. Common early symptoms are fatigue and itchy skin (pruritus). Later symptoms include jaundice, dry eyes and mouth, and pain in the upper right abdomen.
Common Causes
- The cause is unknown, but it is an autoimmune disease where the body turns against its own cells. It most commonly affects women.
Treatment Information
There is no cure, but medications like ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) can help slow the progression of the disease. A liver transplant may be needed for advanced disease.
Important: This information is for educational purposes only.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.