Primary biliary cirrhosis
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), pronounced as /ˈpraɪmɛri ˈbaɪləri sɪˈroʊsɪs/, 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 cirrhosis" originates from the following words: "Primary" (from Latin primarius meaning "of the first rank"), "biliary" (from Latin bilis meaning "bile"), and "cirrhosis" (from Greek kirrhos meaning "yellowish, tawny" - the color of the diseased liver).
Definition
Primary biliary cirrhosis is an autoimmune disease of the liver marked by the slow progressive destruction of the small bile ducts (bile ductules). When these ducts are damaged, bile can back up in the liver and sometimes lead to irreversible scarring of liver tissue (cirrhosis).
Symptoms
Symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis may include fatigue, itching, jaundice, and discomfort in the upper right corner of the abdomen. However, many people with primary biliary cirrhosis do not have any symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease.
Causes
The exact cause of primary biliary cirrhosis is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is also thought that the disease may be triggered by an infection or exposure to certain chemicals.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis is typically based on symptoms, blood tests, and a liver biopsy. Blood tests may show elevated levels of bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase, which are indicative of liver damage.
Treatment
Treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis is aimed at slowing the progression of the disease, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications. This may include medications to slow liver damage, relieve itching, and manage other symptoms.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Wikipedia's article - Primary biliary cirrhosis
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