Osmosis video - Primary biliary cholangitis

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), also referred to as primary biliary cholangitis, is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the liver. It is characterized by the progressive destruction of the small bile ducts in the liver, which leads to inflammation, fibrosis, and ultimately cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver. Symptoms may not appear until the later stages of the disease but can include fatigue, itching, jaundice, and abdominal pain. Treatment involves drugs like ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) and cholestyramine, which slow the progression of the disease and improve symptoms. In advanced cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.