| In primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), the
bile ducts inside and outside the liver become inflamed and scarred. As
the scarring increases, the ducts become blocked. The ducts are important
because they carry bile out of the liver. Bile is a liquid that helps
break down fat in food. If the ducts are blocked, bile builds up in the
liver and damages liver cells. Eventually, PSC can cause liver failure.
Researchers do not know what causes PSC. Among the theories under
investigation are the possible role of bacteria, viruses, and immune
system problems. PSC appears to be associated with ulcerative colitis, a
type of inflammatory bowel disease.
The disease usually begins between ages 30 and 60 and is more common in
men than women. PSC progresses slowly, so a person can have the disease
for years before symptoms develop. The main symptoms are itching, fatigue,
and jaundice, which causes yellowing of the eyes or skin. An infection in
the bile ducts can cause chills and fever.
PSC is diagnosed through cholangiography, which involves injecting dye
into the bile ducts and taking an x-ray. Treatment includes medication to
relieve itching, antibiotics to treat infections, and vitamin supplements,
as people with PSC are often deficient in vitamins A, D, and K. In some
cases, surgery to open major blockages in the common bile duct is also
necessary. Liver transplantation may be an option if the liver begins to
fail.
More information is available from
American Liver Foundation
75 Maiden Lane, Suite 603
New York, NY
10038
Phone: 1-800-GO-LIVER (465-4837)
Email: info@liverfoundation.org
Internet:
http://www.liverfoundation.org/
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