Primary biliary cirrhosis
Primary biliary cirrhosis is a disease in which the bile ducts in the liver are slowly destroyed. Bile - a fluid produced in the liver, takes part in the digestion of food and rids the body of dead red blood cells, cholesterol and toxins.
As a result of damage to the bile ducts, as in primary cirrhosis, harmful substances can accumulate in the liver and cause irreversible scarring of the liver tissue (cirrhosis).
Primary biliary cirrhosis is believed to be an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own cells. Researchers believe the condition is caused by genetic and environmental factors The disease usually develops slowly Medicines can slow the progression of the disease, especially if treatment is started in the early stages
The exact causes of primary biliary cirrhosis are unknown Experts believe the condition is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own cells
How Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Forms Inflammation in primary biliary cirrhosis begins when T lymphocytes (T cells) accumulate in the liver. T cells represent white blood cells White blood cells are part of the immune system
Under normal conditions, T cells recognize and fight harmful organisms such as bacteria However, in primary biliary cirrhosis, these cells invade and destroy the lining of the small bile ducts in the liver.
Inflammation of the smallest ducts spreads over time and destroys the cells surrounding the liver As a result of the destruction of these cells, healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue (fibrosis), which leads to cirrhosis Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver, as a result of which the necessary functions of the liver decrease
Although some patients with primary biliary cirrhosis may have no symptoms for several years after diagnosis, some patients develop several symptoms.
Frequent early symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Dry eyes and mouth
Late symptoms:
- Pain in the upper right part of the abdomen
- Bone pain,
