Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain, itching, fatigue, and any changes in stool or urine color-and looks for risk factors such as ulcerative colitis or a family history of autoimmune disease.
We check liver function tests (alkaline phosphatase, GGT, bilirubin) and autoimmune markers (p-ANCA) to identify cholestasis and rule out other liver disorders.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) allows direct inspection, sampling, and stent placement in narrowed ducts. A liver biopsy may be performed rarely to confirm diagnosis and stage fibrosis.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
PSC usually affects the larger bile ducts and is more common in people with ulcerative colitis. PBC mainly targets smaller bile ducts and occurs more often in women.
Blood tests check for immune markers that support a PSC diagnosis. Results are interpreted alongside imaging studies like MRCP or ERCP.
Yes. GastroDoxs in Houston offers comprehensive PSC care, including diagnostic testing, medical management, endoscopic procedures, and transplant coordination.
Yes. Chronic bile duct inflammation and scarring can progress to cirrhosis if untreated. Early intervention helps slow or prevent liver damage.
A balanced diet low in saturated fat and rich in fiber and vitamins is recommended. Dr. Pothuri's team provides tailored nutritional guidance and supplements as needed.
A transplant is considered if liver function deteriorates significantly or symptoms become severe despite optimal medical and endoscopic therapy. Dr. Pothuri collaborates with Houston transplant centers.
Follow-up visits are generally scheduled every 3 to 6 months, based on your blood tests, imaging results, and how you're feeling clinically.
