How is it treated?

Treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis is difficult, because the immune system appears to be involved. As with other forms of cirrhosis, treatment focuses on reducing symptoms, preventing and treating the complications of the disease, and preventing other conditions that may cause additional liver damage.

The medicine ursodiol is usually given soon after a diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis. Ursodiol helps move bile out of the liver and into the small intestine. If it is used early enough, ursodiol can improve liver function and may keep you from needing a liver transplant. The medicine may also help you live longer.¹

Source: http://www.webmd.com

What are the symptoms?

Many people who have primary biliary cirrhosis do not have symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Itching (pruritus).
• Fatigue.
• Yellowing of the skin and the white part of the eyes (jaundice).
• Discomfort in the upper right part of the abdomen.
• Dry eyes and mouth.
• Vaginal dryness.

With more advanced liver damage, people may have complications related to cirrhosis such as:

• Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites).
• Bleeding of enlarged veins in the esophagus, stomach, and rectum (variceal bleeding).
• Premature thinning of the bones (osteoporosis).

Source: http://www.webmd.com