Hardening and Scarring of the Bile Ducts (Primary Biliary Cholangitis)
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a liver disorder in which the bile ducts harden and develop scars over time. Primary biliary cholangitis can eventually damage the liver and lead to liver failure. PBC is most commonly diagnosed in women over 50 and is thought to be caused by an autoimmune reaction.
BC is a progressive disease, meaning that it generally worsens over time. Symptoms of PBC can range from mild to severe, and they may not appear until the disease has progressed significantly. The most common symptom of PBC is fatigue. In some cases, PBC can also lead to liver cirrhosis.
If you have any of these symptoms, you must see your doctor for a diagnosis. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PBC, but treatments are available to slow the progression of the disease and improve symptoms. The most common treatment for PBC is Ursodiol (Actigall), a medication that helps to dissolve gallstones and reduce inflammation. In some cases, other medicines may be prescribed to help control nausea, fatigue, and itching. In addition, regular vitamins and exercise are often recommended as part of a PBC treatment plan.
