Which are the symptoms of Primary Biliary Cholangitis?

Symptoms of Primary Biliary Cholangitis

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), formerly known as primary biliary cirrhosis, is a chronic liver disease that primarily affects the bile ducts within the liver. It is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the small bile ducts, leading to inflammation, scarring, and ultimately liver damage. PBC is more common in women, typically diagnosed between the ages of 30 and 60.

Early stages:

In the early stages of PBC, individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms. The disease is often detected through routine blood tests that reveal elevated liver enzymes or the presence of specific antibodies. However, as the disease progresses, various symptoms may develop.

Fatigue:

One of the most common symptoms of PBC is fatigue, which can range from mild to severe. Fatigue may be present even with minimal physical or mental exertion and can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life.

Itching:

Another hallmark symptom of PBC is pruritus, or persistent itching. The itching is often worse at night and can be intense, leading to sleep disturbances and irritability. The exact cause of itching in PBC is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to the accumulation of bile acids in the skin.

Jaundice:

As PBC progresses, it can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced by the liver. This can result in jaundice, a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice may also cause darkening of urine and light-colored stools.

Abdominal discomfort:

Some individuals with PBC may experience mild to moderate abdominal discomfort or pain, typically located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. This discomfort may be due to liver enlargement or inflammation.

Dry eyes and mouth:

PBC is associated with Sjögren's syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that affects the moisture-producing glands of the eyes and mouth. As a result, individuals with PBC may experience dry eyes, dry mouth, and difficulty swallowing.

Bone and joint pain:

Many individuals with PBC experience bone and joint pain, which can be generalized or localized. This pain may be due to osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, or other musculoskeletal manifestations of the disease.

Other symptoms:

Additional symptoms that may occur in PBC include unexplained weight loss, easy bruising or bleeding, swollen ankles or legs (edema), and an enlarged liver or spleen.

Conclusion:

Primary Biliary Cholangitis is a chronic liver disease characterized by the destruction of small bile ducts within the liver. While early stages may be asymptomatic, common symptoms of PBC include fatigue, itching, jaundice, abdominal discomfort, dry eyes and mouth, bone and joint pain, and other associated manifestations. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.