Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (also called Primary Biliary Cholangitis) is a chronic liver disorder in which the small bile ducts inside the liver become inflamed and gradually destroyed. As these ducts are damaged, bile builds up and injures liver tissue over time.
PBC often has no symptoms at first. As it advances, you may notice:
The exact cause of PBC remains unclear, but key factors include:
With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive Primary Biliary Cirrhosis management, GastroDoxs in Jersey Village offers expert diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you live well with PBC. Our compassionate team provides fast testing, clear guidance on medications and lifestyle adjustments, and regular monitoring to keep your liver health on track. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward better liver function and long-term wellness.
We've successfully 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.
The ICD-10 code for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis, also known as Primary Biliary Cholangitis, is K74.3.
Yes. PBC and Primary Biliary Cholangitis are two names for the same chronic liver disease; "cholangitis" emphasizes the inflammation of bile ducts.
PBC is diagnosed through blood tests (including anti-mitochondrial antibodies), imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes a liver biopsy.
AMA (anti-mitochondrial antibodies) are autoantibodies detected in most people with PBC and are a key marker used to confirm the diagnosis.
Early PBC often presents with fatigue and mild itching. Symptoms may be subtle initially and worsen over time.
Yes. PBC is an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the small bile ducts in the liver.
With early detection and proper treatment, many people with PBC live a normal lifespan. Disease progression varies by individual.
A balanced, low-salt diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, plus calcium and vitamin D supplements, supports liver and bone health.
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) affects both large and small bile ducts and is often linked to ulcerative colitis, while PBC mainly involves small ducts and primarily affects women.
Contact the GastroDoxs team in Jersey Village for personalized gastroenterology care, fast testing, and expert management of PBC.
