Primary Biliary Cirrhosis
Diagnosis
In diagnosing PBC, your doctor will start by conducting a thorough physical examination and asking about your medical history, including any symptoms you have been experiencing. A series of blood tests, liver X-rays and in some cases, liver biopsy will be performed to make a definite diagnosis.
During a liver biopsy, a small sample of tissue is removed from your liver using a thin needle. The tissue is prepared and stained in a laboratory for examination under a microscope.
UCSF Health medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your provider.