PRIMARY BILIARY CIRRHOSIS

Primary biliary cirrhosis is a chronic, progressive liver disease of unknown cause which predominantly affects middle-aged women. The condition is strongly associated with presence of serum antibodies to mitochondria. This disease is most common in northern Europe and North America but rare in Africa and Asia. The specific symptoms are lethargy and anthralgia are common and may precede diagnosis for years. Initially, patients are well nourished but considerable weight loss can occur as the disease progresses. This disease can be managed by using antibiotics such as corticosteroids, azathioprine, penicillamine and cyclosporin. Liver biopsy is only necessary if there is diagnostic uncertainty.