Primary sclerosing cholangitis

Article Abstract:

Patients diagnosed with primary sclerosing cholangitis should be offered treatment even if they have no symptoms. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is characterized by a narrowing of the bile ducts within and outside the liver due to chronic inflammation. Its cause is not known, but chronic bacterial infections, toxins produced by intestinal bacteria or toxins produced during digestion have been suggested as causes. It appears to have an immune component, since immune system abnormalities are often present. Most patients are first detected following abnormal liver function tests. The diagnostic method of choice is an ERCP, which involves using a catheter to inject a dye into the bile ducts so they can be visualized on X-ray. The ducts will have a characteristic beaded appearance. No medical treatment is entirely effective, and advanced liver disease requires a liver transplant. Most studies report median survival rates of 9 to 12 years after diagnosis.

Care and treatment, Biliary tract diseases

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Toward better treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis

Article Abstract:

Much research is needed on the cause and treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. This liver disease is characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts in the liver, which obstructs the flow of bile. It ultimately leads to liver cirrhosis and liver failure. Ursodiol is widely used to treat this disease but there is little evidence of its effectiveness. A 1997 study found that although the drug improved liver function as measured by enzymatic activity, it did not improve symptoms or increase survival. There is some evidence that primary sclerosing cholangitis is an autoimmune disease.

Health aspects, Editorial

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Ursodiol for primary sclerosing cholangitis

Article Abstract:

Ursodiol does not appear to be effective in the treatment of primary sclerosing cholangitis. Primary sclerosing cholangitis is a liver disease caused by inflammatory changes in the bile ducts and liver. One hundred and two patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis were randomly assigned to take ursodiol or placebo. Over a median follow-up of 2 years, there were no significant differences in outcome between the two groups. However, ursodiol seemed to improve liver function as measured enzymatically. The treatment failed in half the patients in each group.

Evaluation

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