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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hello everyone .. I would like to ask questions..

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Shreveport, LA

Yes all my numbers been normal since first month on URSO. But it's showing on scan I got chrissios of the liver. Can anyone tell me what this means. My Dr have left town. So I don't have a liver Dr right now. I am in stage 2 as far as I know .

January 6
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Answer Summary

Members rallied around a member asking about a cirrhosis finding on their scan while waiting for a new liver specialist, offering both... Read more

Members rallied around a member asking about a cirrhosis finding on their scan while waiting for a new liver specialist, offering both reassurance and helpful context. Several members explained that normal lab numbers and cirrhosis can exist at the same time, clarifying that labs reflect current liver activity while scarring reflects past damage, and one member shared their own stage 4 experience with a healthy MELD score of 6. A recurring theme was the importance of being proactive by researching MELD scores, following a liver-friendly diet, exercising, taking Ursodiol consistently, and seeking resources like the PBC Foundation or a nearby hepatologist rather than waiting alone.

A myPBCteam Member

I would wait till your specialist is back in town. He would have the answer to your scan results, staging and how your PBC meds may or may not change.

January 6
myPBCteam

What does cirrhosis mean with PBC?

Cirrhosis means severe scarring of the liver. As PBC progresses, your liver tries to heal damaged bile ducts by creating scar tissue. When enough scar tissue builds up, it interferes with your liver's ability to function properly.

This is typically associated with stage 4 PBC, though Show Full Answer

What does cirrhosis mean with PBC?

Cirrhosis means severe scarring of the liver. As PBC progresses, your liver tries to heal damaged bile ducts by creating scar tissue. When enough scar tissue builds up, it interferes with your liver's ability to function properly.

This is typically associated with stage 4 PBC, though imaging can detect cirrhosis developing earlier. The scar tissue blocks bile flow and blood flow through your liver, which can lead to various complications over time. Why might your scan show cirrhosis if you're in stage 2?

Imaging tests like ultrasound, CT, or MRI can detect liver changes including cirrhosis and help track PBC progression. These scans can show enlargement of the liver or early scarring that might not yet be causing symptoms or abnormal blood work.

It's possible the imaging is showing early signs of progression, or there may be a discrepancy between your previous staging and current liver condition. Since your numbers have been normal on URSO, this is definitely something that needs clarification. What should you do next?

Finding a new hepatologist should be your priority. You need a liver specialist who can:

* Review your imaging results in detail
* Compare them with your blood work
* Determine your actual PBC stage
* Adjust your treatment plan if needed

In the meantime, continue taking your URSO as prescribed. Consider researching hepatologists who specialize in PBC and have experience you're comfortable with, as one myPBCteam member shared about her successful search for the right specialist.

January 6
A myPBCteam Member

For starters...If you were never told anything about a MELD score - If you have your lab result numbers - and go to "Stanford Medicine" site - look for medical calculators . You can plug in your numbers and get a MELD score. I have PBC and Alcoholic Cirrhosis. So I just search the major sites of the popular names *UPMC, Penn Medicine, *Mayo Clinic, Wellspan,etc and search for one or both and read up on all that stuff AND I also ordered some books from Thriftbook on Cirrhosis/PBC and highlight/make notes. This is a GREAT place to ask questions too obviously. My sisters an RN and she's been stressing that we as patients need to be proactive for ourselves sometimes and not always wait around /hold questions in - ask away. You're the one paying them!! THEY work for you. GOOD LUCK!!

February 7
A myPBCteam Member

I definitely agree with above comment. I freaked out when I found out I have cirrhosis as well (found out when my gallbladder was acting up and had to be removed) but my liver function is excellent currently with the medication regime I’m on. It’s scary but try not to panic and trust your doctor and how you feel in general.best of luck!

January 7
A myPBCteam Member

Wait for your doctor. General information that isn’t specific to you can scare the crap out of you! Congrats that the Urso is working for you and your numbers are good. Keep us posted! Good luck.

January 7

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