A liver disease that destroys bile ducts, primary biliary cirrhosis affects women more often than men. This eMedTV Web page provides a general overview of primary biliary cirrhosis symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
As this eMedTV page explains, the causes of biliary cirrhosis are different for each type of the disease. Secondary biliary cirrhosis occurs when large bile ducts outside the liver are obstructed. The cause of primary biliary cirrhosis is unknown.
Arthritis, dry eyes, and bone pain are a few of the possible early symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis. This eMedTV article also lists a number of late primary biliary cirrhosis symptoms (including intense itching and personality changes).
This part of the eMedTV archives discusses a number of tests that a doctor may use as part of diagnosing primary biliary cirrhosis, such as a physical exam, liver enzyme test, tests that look at cholesterol levels, ultrasound, and liver biopsy.
Treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis can include lifestyle changes and medications. This eMedTV page explains that primary biliary cirrhosis treatment is focused on slowing the progression of the disease and treating any symptoms or complications.
Secondary biliary cirrhosis occurs when the large bile ducts outside of the liver become blocked. This eMedTV page takes an in-depth look at secondary biliary cirrhosis causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment -- and also links to more information.
