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What is the medical condition primary biliary cirrhosis?
Primary biliary cirrhosis is the gradual destruction of the biliary system for unknown reasons.
Is Primary Biliary Cirrhosis a rare disease?
yes
Who is most likely to develop primary biliary cirrhosis?
Ninety percent of patients with this disease are women between the ages of 35 and 60.
What are the early symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis?
Itching is caused by a buildup of bile in the skin and fatigue are early symptoms.
How do you describe primary biliary cirrhosis?
Has many features to suggest that it is an autoimmune disease, the system that drains bile from the liver into the intestines is progressively destroyed, the liver becomes scarred, leading to cirrhosis.
Are eyes effected by primary biliary cirrhosis?
Possibly - One of the symptoms is Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), due to increased bilirubin in the blood.
How is primary biliary cirrhosis diagnosed?
Blood tests strongly suggest the correct diagnosis, but a liver biopsy is needed for confirmation. It is also usually necessary to x ray the biliary system to look for other causes of obstruction.
What is the progression of primary biliary cirrhosis?
In some patients, the disease destroys the liver in as little as five years. In others, it may lie dormant for a decade or more.
What are the causes of primary biliary cirrhosis?
A lack of vitamin metabolism (vitamins K, D, A, E) because of the absence of bile to assist in the absorption of nutrients from the intestines.
What is the treatment for primary biliary cirrhosis?
Ursodeoxycholic acid, a chemical that dissolves gall stones, provides substantial symptomatic relief. It is still unclear if it slows liver damage. Patients also do well with liver transplantation.
Can you claim benefits with primary biliary cirrhosis?
Yes, individuals with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) may be eligible for benefits, particularly if their condition significantly impacts their ability to work or perform daily activities. In many countries, such as the United States, individuals can apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) based on their medical condition. Eligibility often depends on the severity of symptoms and the extent to which PBC limits functional capacity. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider or benefits advisor for guidance on the application process.
What are the later symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis?
Jaundice from the accumulation of bile and nutritional deficiencies-bruising from lack of vitamin K, bone pain from lack of vitamin D, night blindness from lack of vitamin A, and skin rashes, lack of vitamin E.
