Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune cells attack the bile ducts of the liver. As a result, the bile ducts — through which bile, the substance that helps digest fat — are destroyed. The process results in scarring, which over time may progress to cirrhosis and, in severe cases, liver failure. Although primary biliary cirrhosis can affect all ages and sexes, middle-age women are most frequently diagnosed with the disease.

Our Approach to Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Treatments for primary biliary cirrhosis include medication to slow the liver damage and, for severe cases, liver transplantation. We may also prescribe medications to relieve symptoms and to prevent or treat complications.

For patients who need a transplant, UCSF offers a liver transplant program known for outstanding outcomes and survival statistics that are among the best in the country. Our program helped pioneer techniques that have made transplantation safer and more successful.