Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), previously known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is an autoimmune disease that affects the liver. Here are the key points:

Bile Duct Damage:

• PBC causes inflammation and gradual destruction of the small bile ducts in the liver.
• Bile ducts play a crucial role in digestion, vitamin absorption, and cholesterol elimination.
• Ongoing inflammation can lead to bile duct damage and permanent scarring (cirrhosis).

Symptoms:

• Early symptoms (often asymptomatic):
  • Fatigue.
  • Itchy skin.
• Later symptoms:
  • Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice).
  • Dry eyes and mouth.
  • Pain in the upper right abdomen.
  • Swollen spleen (splenomegaly).
  • Bone, muscle, or joint pain.
  • Swollen feet and ankles.
  • Ascites (fluid buildup in the abdomen).
  • Xanthomas (fatty deposits around eyes, eyelids, or joints).
  • Hyperpigmentation (darkening of skin).
  • Osteoporosis (brittle bones).
  • High cholesterol.
  • Steatorrhea (diarrhea with greasy stools).
  • Hypothyroidism.
  • Weight loss.

Causes:

• Autoimmune Disease:
  • The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy bile duct cells.
  • Genetic and environmental factors likely contribute.
• Liver Inflammation:
  • White blood cells (T cells) accumulate in the liver, damaging bile ducts.