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Primary Biliary Cholangitis 1 C4551595

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

An autoimmune liver disease where the immune system attacks bile ducts, causing inflammation and liver damage. It mostly affects middle-aged women. Treatment with medication can help slow progression.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
K76.9
ICD-11
DA00.0
Body system
hepatobiliary
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Fatigue

(hepatobiliary)

Generalized symptoms

(hepatobiliary)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Pruritus (itching)

(hepatobiliary)

Jaundice

(hepatobiliary)

Xanthomas

(hepatobiliary)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Exercise prescription and weight management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Ursodeoxycholic Acid (UDCA)

First-line bile acid therapy that replaces toxic bile acids and protects liver cells from damage. This treatment slows disease progression and improves liver blood tests in most patients with primary biliary cholangitis.

medication
3

Alcohol Abstinence

Complete avoidance of alcohol consumption to prevent additional liver stress. Even moderate alcohol intake can accelerate liver damage in patients with compromised bile flow.

lifestyle

Additional treatment options

Obeticholic Acid (Second-line)

An farnesoid X receptor agonist used as add-on therapy when UDCA alone is insufficient. This medication increases bile flow and reduces bile acid toxicity in the liver.

medication

Liver-Supportive Nutrition

Emphasis on nutrient-dense whole foods while reducing saturated fat and processed food intake. Adequate protein consumption supports liver function, while limiting salt helps manage potential fluid retention.

dietary

Regular Liver Function Surveillance

Scheduled blood tests including liver enzymes, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase to track disease progression. Imaging and elastography may be used to assess liver fibrosis over time.

monitoring

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Primary Biliary Cholangitis 1 C4551595?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Lindor KD, Bowlus CL, Boyer J, et al. Primary Biliary Cholangitis: 2018 Practice Guidance from the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases. Hepatology. 2019.

guideline2019
2

Hirschfield GM, Gershwin ME. Primary Biliary Cirrhosis: Current and Emerging Treatment Strategies. Gastroenterology. 2023.

review2023
3

Nevens F, Andreone P, Mazzella G, et al. A Placebo-Controlled Trial of Obeticholic Acid in Primary Biliary Cholangitis. N Engl J Med. 2016.

clinical_trial2016
4

Zhang L, Wang Y, Chen Y, et al. Comparative Efficacy of Ursodeoxycholic Acid Agents in Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Hepatol. 2022.

meta_analysis2022

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Primary Biliary Cholangitis 1 C4551595. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy