Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) Is An Autoimmune Disease That Affects The Small Bile Ducts In The Liver. The Bile Ducts Become Inflamed And Scarred, Resulting In A Decrease In The Production Of Bile And Its Ability To Flow Through The Liver. This Can Lead To A Buildup Of Bile Acids In The Liver, Which Can Cause Damage To The Liver Cells And Cause Cirrhosis. PBC Is More Common In Women Over The Age Of 40 And Is Often Associated With Other Autoimmune Diseases, Such As Sjogren's Syndrome, Rheumatoid Arthritis, And Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The Exact Cause Of PBC Is Unknown, But Certain Genetic And Environmental Factors May Play A Role. The Disease Is Thought To Be Triggered By An Abnormal Immune Response, Where The Body Attacks Its Own Bile Ducts. This Causes Inflammation And Scarring, Which Can Lead To Cirrhosis. Symptoms Of PBC Can Vary, But Often Include Fatigue, Itching, And Jaundice. Other Symptoms Include Abdominal Pain, Weight Loss, And Dark Urine.