Primary sclerosing cholangitis

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a long-term progressive disease of the liver and gallbladder characterized by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts which normally allow bile to drain from the gallbladder. This can lead to liver damage and eventually, liver failure.

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Cholangiogram of primary sclerosing cholangitis

Introduction[edit | edit source]

PSC is a chronic disease characterized by a progressive course of cholestasis with inflammation and fibrosis of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts. The disease affects both adults and children, but is more common in males. The pathogenesis of PSC remains unclear, but it is often associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly ulcerative colitis.[1]

Causes[edit | edit source]

The exact cause of PSC is unknown, but it's thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. The strong association between PSC and IBD suggests an autoimmune component to the disease.[2]

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Many people with PSC have no symptoms at all. When symptoms do occur, they may include fatigue, itching, abdominal pain, fever, and jaundice. Over time, as the liver's function decreases, symptoms of cirrhosis can develop, including fluid buildup, bleeding from enlarged veins, and confusion.[3]

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis is often made through a combination of liver function tests, imaging studies such as MRCP or ERCP, and sometimes liver biopsy. The hallmark of PSC on imaging is a pattern of strictures and dilations of the bile ducts, often described as a 'beaded' appearance.[4]

Treatment[edit | edit source]

There's currently no known cure for PSC, and treatment is mainly supportive. This can include medication to relieve itching and antibiotics for infections. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.[5]

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The course of PSC is highly variable, ranging from a relatively indolent course to rapid progression to cirrhosis and its complications. PSC is a serious condition that can lead to other health problems, such as liver cirrhosis, bile duct infection, liver failure, and liver cancer.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. ↑ Chapman, R., Fevery, J., Kalloo, A., Nagorney, D. M., Boberg, K. M., Shneider, B., & Gores, G. J. (2010). Diagnosis and management of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Hepatology, 51(2), 660-678.
  2. ↑ Boonstra, K., Weersma, R. K., & van Erpecum, K. J. (2013). Epidemiology of primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis: a systematic review. Journal of hepatology, 58(5), 958-967.
  3. ↑ Chapman, R. W. (2015). Risk factors for biliary neoplasia in primary sclerosing cholangitis. Journal of hepatology, 62(5), 1065-1067.
  4. ↑ Lazaridis, K. N., & LaRusso, N. F. (2016). Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis. New England Journal of Medicine, 375(12), 1161-1170.
  5. ↑ Karlsen, T. H., Folseraas, T., Thorburn, D., & Vesterhus, M. (2014). Primary sclerosing cholangitis – a comprehensive review. Journal of hepatology, 59(5), 1069-1079.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD