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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.
A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Scotland, AR
March 28
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What is the life expectancy with cirrhosis, normal liver tests, and PBC?

Life expectancy with PBC and cirrhosis can be quite good with proper treatment, even if you've reached stage 4. With standard UDCA therapy, studies show 10-year liver-transplant-free survival rates approaching 80 percent. This means 80 percent of Show Full Answer

What is the life expectancy with cirrhosis, normal liver tests, and PBC?

Life expectancy with PBC and cirrhosis can be quite good with proper treatment, even if you've reached stage 4. With standard UDCA therapy, studies show 10-year liver-transplant-free survival rates approaching 80 percent. This means 80 percent of people treated with UDCA who didn't need a transplant were still alive after 10 years.

If your liver function tests are staying normal while on treatment, that's generally a positive sign. Your healthcare team uses tools like the GLOBE score and UK-PBC score to predict your individual outlook, which consider factors like:

* Bilirubin levels
* Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels
* Albumin levels
* Platelet count
* Age

Normal or improving test results typically suggest better disease control and slower progression. However, cirrhosis does increase certain risks, including portal hypertension and hepatic encephalopathy, which need monitoring.

It's important to discuss your specific test results and prognosis with your gastroenterologist. They can explain what your normal liver tests mean in the context of having cirrhosis and help you understand your individual outlook.

March 28

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