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Primary biliary cirrhosis

Definition:
Primary biliary cirrhosis is an inflammation (irritation and swelling with increased presence of immune cells) of the bile ducts of the liver resulting in narrowing and obstruction of the flow of bile. This obstruction damages liver cells.

Alternative Names:
PBC

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

The cause of inflamed bile ducts within the liver in this condition is not known. The disease more commonly affects middle-aged women. The onset of symptoms is gradual, most commonly with fatigue and itching skin as the first symptom.

Long-standing bile obstruction is believed to lead to liver cirrhosis. The disease may be associated with autoimmune disorders (hypothyroidism, Raynaud's, CREST syndrome, arthridities). There are about 3 to 15 cases per million people in the US population each year.



Review Date: 4/25/2002
Reviewed By: Andrew J. Muir, M.D. M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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