Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a long term liver disorder characterized by inflammation, scarring and constriction of bile ducts where bile is drained out of the liver into the small intestine. In case of obstruction, bile stagnates in the liver leading to tissue injuries that may lead to cirrhosis. PSC may frequently be observed in individuals having ulcerative colitis.
Dr. Chadha receives your symptoms, medical history (ulcerative colitis), family history, and risk factors.
Measurement of liver enzymes (ALP, ALT, AST) and immune markers (ANCA) is done to identify cholestasis and eliminate other liver disease.
An MRI examination, which is not invasive, and which gives detailed images of the bile ducts indicating where the inflammations, strictures, or scarring are taking place.
A small tissue sample is also taken in some instances to identify stage of disease and establish the patient is PSC to inform treatment.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
The early signs are fatigue, itching and yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).
PSC is an involvement of large and small bile ducts whereas PBC is a primary involvement of small bile ducts in the liver.
No. PSC does not lead to ulcerative colitis but a good number of individuals with PSC have ulcerative colitis.
Liver enzymes, ANCA as immunomarkers on blood are beneficial in PSC.
It is incurable but some form of treatment such as ursodeoxycholic acid and other treatments can be used slowly to reduce disease progression.
ERCP is able to dilate or open blocked bile ducts and can also place stents to enlarge them.
Liver transplant is performed in cases where PSC causes liver failure or extreme complications, which cannot be allowed to pass.
Yes. A healthy low-fat diet with a high content of fruits and vegetables will ensure the liver is healthy and will lessen the symptoms.
Somehow it is every 3-6 months, depending on your condition and stage of PSC.
Yes. Missing any new studies and treatment you might be eligible to participate in? Inquire with the team of Ask Dr. Chadha.
