Primary biliary cirrhosis is a chronic bile accumulation disease. It is believed to be an autoimmune disease. The cause is unknown. Symptoms include fatigue and itching. It can cause complications such as metabolic bone disease, xanthomas, fat-soluble vitamin mal-absorption, urinary tract infections and cancer. The disease develops slowly, eventually leading to cirrhosis and liver failure. Regardless of histological stage, the drug of UDCA is recommended as long as there are abnormal liver enzymes found in blood test. Liver transplant is the only effective treatment for end stage patients.
How is Primary biliary cirrhosis treated in practice?