Liver disorder due to obstructed bile ducts.
An uncommon type of cirrhosis that causes gradual, progressive destruction of bile ducts in the liver. Because its normal excretion is interrupted, bile accumulates in the liver and can damage liver cells. This chronic liver disease is classified as either primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) or secondary biliary cirrhosis.
Cirrhosis marked by prolonged jaundice due to chronic retention of bile and inflammation of bile ducts.
Liver cirrhosis, an uncommon manifestation, arises from complications in the bile ducts. There exist two distinct forms of biliary cirrhosis, each with its own characteristics. The first variant, termed primary biliary cirrhosis, is an autoimmune disorder. On the other hand, the second type, known as secondary biliary cirrhosis, emerges from a prolonged obstruction. In both cases, the liver’s functionality is compromised due to cholestasis, which signifies the accumulation of bile within the liver.
Primarily affecting women in their middle age, primary biliary cirrhosis exhibits a strong association with immune system dysfunction. This disorder entails inflammation and subsequent destruction of the liver’s bile ducts. It presents various symptoms, including pruritus (itching), jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), occasional abdominal pain, steatorrhea (fatty diarrhea), and xanthomatosis (fatty deposits under the skin). Moreover, osteoporosis may develop as a secondary effect. After a few years, signs of liver cirrhosis and failure may manifest. While medications can mitigate complications and alleviate itching, the ultimate cure lies in a liver transplant.
Secondary biliary cirrhosis arises when there is an extended blockage of the bile ducts or the presence of abnormal bile ducts, known as biliary atresia. Indications of this condition encompass abdominal pain, sensitivity to touch, hepatomegaly (enlarged liver), episodes of fever and chills, and occasionally, abnormalities in blood tests. The treatment approach for secondary biliary cirrhosis aligns with that of bile duct obstruction.