Primary biliary cholangitis

Primary biliary cholangitis (pronounced as pri·​ma·​ry bi·​li·​ary cho·​lan·​gi·​tis) is a chronic disease that causes the bile ducts in the liver to become inflamed and damaged and, ultimately, disappear.

Etymology

The term "Primary biliary cholangitis" is derived from the Latin words "primus" meaning first, "bile" meaning gall, and "cholangitis" meaning inflammation of the bile ducts.

Definition

Primary biliary cholangitis, formerly known as Primary biliary cirrhosis, is a type of liver disease caused by damage to the bile ducts in the liver. This damage prevents the liver from properly excreting bile, a substance that helps digest fat and eliminate worn-out red blood cells, cholesterol, and toxins. Over time, this condition can lead to cirrhosis, or scarring and hardening of the liver, and eventually to liver failure.

Symptoms

The symptoms of primary biliary cholangitis can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience fatigue, itching, dry eyes and mouth, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), and discomfort in the upper right abdomen.

Diagnosis

Primary biliary cholangitis is typically diagnosed through blood tests that look for elevated levels of certain liver enzymes and antibodies that are often present in people with this condition. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or a magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), may also be used to help diagnose this condition.

Treatment

While there is no cure for primary biliary cholangitis, treatments are available that can slow the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. These may include medications to slow liver damage, relieve symptoms, and prevent complications. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Related Terms

• Bile duct
• Liver
• Cirrhosis
• Liver transplant
• Antibodies
• Enzymes

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Primary biliary cholangitis
• Wikipedia's article - Primary biliary cholangitis

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