An Update on the Treatment and Follow-up of Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

11-1-2017

Publication Title

Clinics in liver disease

Keywords

Aftercare; Autoimmune Diseases; Cholagogues and Choleretics; Cholangitis; Disease Management; Disease Progression; Humans; Liver Cirrhosis, Biliary; Liver Transplantation; Ursodeoxycholic Acid

Abstract

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by chronic granulomatous lymphocytic cholangitis of the small bile ducts. PBC was a leading indication for liver transplant in the United States; with early diagnosis and treatment, the majority of patients with PBC have a normal life expectancy. Pathogenesis involves inflammatory damage of bile duct epithelium secondary to innate and adaptive immune responses, and toxicity from accumulated bile acids. Cholestasis and disease progression can lead to cirrhosis. Extrahepatic complications include dyslipidemia, metabolic bone disease, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiency. Ursodeoxycholic acid is a well-established therapy. Novel targeted therapeutics are being developed.

Clinical Institute

Digestive Health

Department

Gastroenterology

Department

Hepatology

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