What is primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)?
Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a condition that impacts the bile ducts of the liver, causing them to become inflamed and ultimately scar. It primarily affects young and middle-aged men, and 80% of patients with PSC also have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
In this blog, we’ll be providing an overview of what primary sclerosing cholangitis is, the symptoms it can cause, how it is treated, and some other need-to-know facts. Read on to learn more.
An overview of primary sclerosing cholangitis
An individual’s liver is responsible for making bile, a fluid that helps the body digest fats, and transporting it to the gallbladder and small intestine. PSC occurs when these bile ducts become inflamed and scarred, which prevents the liver from releasing bile. The buildup of this bile can eventually damage the liver cells, causing chronic liver disease and liver failure.
The cause is not known, but there is evidence that shows that individuals with primary sclerosing cholangitis have a higher antibody count than others, which may suggest it stems from an issue with the immune system. In addition, those with PSC are also more likely to have an autoimmune disease such as type 1 diabetes or celiac disease, and have an increased risk of developing cancer.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis symptoms
In the early stages of PSC, symptoms are not always prevalent. Typically, patients find out about a PSC diagnosis after receiving abnormal results from routine blood tests, and will only begin to develop symptoms as the condition progresses. Once symptoms do appear, they can include jaundice, itching, upper abdomen pain, fever, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. The timeline and severity of these symptoms vary, as the experience of living with PSC is different for each individual.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis treatment
There is no known cure or specific treatment for PSC, so addressing the condition must instead be done through symptom management and liver damage reduction. The first line of treatment is typically bile acid sequestrants, which reduce bile in the liver and can lessen the itchiness that some individuals experience. Additionally, many individuals with PSC are susceptible to bacterial infections due to damaged bile ducts, so these must be treated with antibiotics as needed.
Nutritional and lifestyle changes can also serve to ease symptoms associated with primary sclerosing cholangitis. Diet recommendations typically include eating foods high in vitamins, as PSC can make it difficult for the body to absorb nutrients as readily. Many patients are also advised to take vitamin supplements to ensure they do not become deficient. Recommended lifestyle changes include avoiding alcohol, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight, as these can all reduce the negative impact on the liver. Though these things are helpful, it is important to note that the only long-term solution for PSC patients is to receive a liver transplant — but because of the high risks associated with this procedure, it is reserved for the most severe cases.
Primary biliary cholangitis vs primary sclerosing cholangitis
While primary biliary cholangitis (also known as PBC) and PSC share similar names and symptoms, they are different conditions that must be managed in different ways. Both of these conditions impact the bile ducts, but not in the same ways. The process for diagnosing the conditions is different, as are treatment regimens. Furthermore, PSC primarily impacts men of varying ages, while PBC is predominately found in women that are over 45.
While there are many things that are not yet known about PSC, medical research is what makes finding answers a possibility. Participating in a clinical trial can help PSC patients take control of their treatment plans, receive access to potential new therapies, and experience world-class medical care. To learn more about studies that are seeking PSC patients now, use the button below to get started.
