What Is Biliary Cirrhosis?

Biliary cirrhosis (usually referred to as primary biliary cirrhosis) is characterized by the slow, progressive destruction of the liver's bile ducts. These ducts carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder, and as they become damaged, bile accumulates in the liver, resulting in liver damage.

Facts

• As the condition progresses, damage to bile ducts causes inflammation in the liver. Scar tissue then begins to replace healthy liver tissue and impairs the liver's ability to function properly.

Causes

• According to the Mayo Clinic, the precise cause of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is unknown; however, researchers believe it is related to a dysfunction of the immune system, which is likely caused by a combination of genetics and environment (such as an exposure to toxic chemicals).

Risk Factors

• According to the Mayo Clinic, women are most at risk for developing the disease and account for more than 90 percent of PBC patients. Having a family history of the disease is also a risk factor.

Symptoms

• Common early symptoms include fatigue, itching on your back, legs or arms, and dry mouth. As PBC progresses, you may experience symptoms such as hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), swelling and digestive problems.

Treatments

• Liver transplants are the only cure for PBC. Additional treatments are aimed at alleviating symptoms and may include medications to treat itching, dietary recommendations, vitamin supplements and avoiding alcoholic beverages.