Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the small bile ducts in the liver. These ducts normally carry bile — a fluid that helps with digestion — from the liver to the intestines.
When the bile ducts are damaged, bile builds up in the liver, causing inflammation Show Full Answer
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks the small bile ducts in the liver. These ducts normally carry bile — a fluid that helps with digestion — from the liver to the intestines.
When the bile ducts are damaged, bile builds up in the liver, causing inflammation and scarring over time. If left untreated, this can eventually lead to cirrhosis (severe liver scarring) and liver failure. Symptoms often develop slowly, and many people don't notice anything in the early stages. The most common symptoms include:
- Fatigue — affects around 50–65% of people with PBC
- Itchy skin (pruritus) — affects around 55% of people
- Dry eyes or dry mouth
- Jaundice — yellowing of the skin and eyes, more common in advanced PBC
As PBC progresses, additional symptoms can develop, including:
- Unintentional weight loss
- High cholesterol
- Vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, and K)
- Bone thinning (osteoporosis)
- Greasy stools or diarrhea
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, or abdomen
- Skin darkening unrelated to sun exposure
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is also more common in people with PBC, which can bring its own symptoms like weight gain, joint pain, and increased fatigue.
It's always worth flagging any new or changing symptoms with your doctor, as some can be subtle but still important to track.
October 24
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