Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Treatment

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic disease that destroys the liver. Livers produce bile which then drains into ducts and travels to the intestines. Sometimes, the ducts become inflamed or irritated. As the inflammation worsens, PBC breaks down the bile ducts and replaces them with scar tissue. It's thought to be an autoimmune disease, causing the body to attack its own cells. The response may be because of something in the environment, a bacteria or virus or a genetic cause.

Medication

• PBC can be life threatening, but many people with it live productive and active lives. Some people may not have any symptoms and may not show symptoms for years to come. The only drug that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat PBC is called ursodeoxycholic acid. This bile salt can slow down the disease's progression. While it doesn't cure the disease, the medication does reduce the liver enzymes that are usually elevated in PBC, slows down the progression and increases the chances of survival. Most people tolerate the drug, but some may experience side effects. There are other medications that help with the symptoms of PBC including diphenhydramine, cholestyramine and rifampin. They help alleviate some of the itching associated with the disease. Vitamin D, calcium and other supplements may also help with osteoporosis, which is often caused by PBC.

Transplant

• If medication doesn't work to treat PBS and severe liver failure begins, you may need to have a transplant. It can extend or improve your quality of life. Candidates need to get on the transplant list and wait for a match. It can take a year or longer for an organ to become available. Some hospitals also have a living donor transplant program for a shorter wait. The signs that someone may need a transplant include a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, gastrointestinal bleeding, severe weakness, jaundice, severe itching and loss of muscle mass.