|
Headlines:
|
 |
Primary Biliary
Cirrhosis
Primary biliary cirrhosis is a disease of the liver marked by the
slow destruction of the bile ducts. When this ducts are damaged bile
builds up in the liver and over time damages the tissue. Over time
primary biliary cirrhosis can result in liver failure.
Etiology
The cause of the disease us unknown at this time, but research
indicates that there is an immunological basis for the disease, making
it an autoimmune disorder.
Signs and symptoms
- fatigue
- pruritus (itchy skin)
- jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin)
- xanthalasmas (focal collections of cholesterol in the skin)
- fluid retention
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis can be made using
radiological studies, lab tests, and/or doing a liver biopsy.
Liver function tests may show a high serum alkaline phosphatase.
Mitochondrial antibodies are seen in 95% of the cases (M2 antibodies
are more specific). ANF and SMA antibodies may also be elevated.
Treatment
Symptomatic treatment of pruritus with cholestyramine.
Immunosuppressive therapy in advanced cases. Liver transplantation is
very successful in improving quality of life and increasing survival.
|
|
|
|
Are you a doctor or a nurse?
Do you want to join the Doctors Lounge online medical community?
Participate in editorial activities (publish, peer review, edit) and
give a helping hand to the largest online community of patients.
Click on the link below to see the requirements:
Doctors Lounge Membership
Application |
|
|
send
to a friend
printer
friendly version
