Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
Expert diagnosis and treatment by Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu | Hepatologist & Liver Transplant Surgeon, Bangalore
Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu is a Hepatologist and Liver Transplant Surgeon in Bangalore who specialises in the diagnosis and management of primary biliary cholangitis. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that slowly destroys the bile ducts in the liver, leading to a buildup of toxic substances and eventual liver damage. It is more common in women and often presents with symptoms like fatigue, itching, and dry eyes or mouth. Early diagnosis and treatment can help slow disease progression and improve quality of life. Dr. Bojanapu provides expert care tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring comprehensive and compassionate management of PBC.
Understanding Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)
Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic liver disease that slowly destroys the bile ducts in the liver. The exact cause is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve an autoimmune response where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts. This leads to inflammation, scarring, and eventually damage to the liver. Over time, the damaged bile ducts are unable to transport bile properly, causing bile to build up in the liver and leading to further liver injury. The disease is more common in women and typically affects middle-aged individuals, though it can occur at any age. People with a family history of the disease or those with other autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome, are at higher risk. The progression of the disease is usually slow, but without treatment, it can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, and the need for a liver transplant. Early diagnosis and treatment with medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid can help slow the progression and manage symptoms.
Signs and Symptoms
- Progressive destruction of intrahepatic bile ducts
- Pruritus often present early in disease
- Elevated alkaline phosphatase levels
- Presence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies
- Chronic progressive cholestasis
- May lead to cirrhosis over time
Treatment at Dr. Bojanapu Clinic
At Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu’s clinic in Bangalore, primary biliary cholangitis is managed through a comprehensive approach tailored to each patient’s needs. The treatment primarily involves medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid to slow disease progression, along with supplements like fat-soluble vitamins to address nutritional deficiencies. In advanced cases, surgical interventions such as liver transplantation may be considered when the disease significantly impacts liver function. The clinic ensures that patients receive expert guidance on lifestyle modifications and dietary adjustments to support treatment outcomes.
Regular follow-ups are a crucial part of the care plan, with patients monitored through blood tests, imaging studies, and consultations to assess disease activity and response to treatment. Dr. Bojanapu’s team emphasizes long-term management and patient education to improve quality of life. The clinic’s multidisciplinary approach ensures that patients receive timely and effective care, supported by a compassionate and experienced medical team.
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Hepatologist & Liver Transplant Surgeon, Bangalore
MBBS, MS, FACRSI, DrNB, PDF (RGUHS) · 16+ years · 60+ transplants/year
Dhaara Liver Clinic, Yelahanka · Kauvery Hospital EC & Marathahalli · Kuppam · Hospet · Shimoga
Causes and Risk Factors
Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts in the liver. The exact cause is unknown, but genetic predisposition and environmental triggers are believed to play a role. Risk factors include being female (women are 10 times more likely to develop PBC than men), having a family history of autoimmune diseases, and exposure to certain toxins or infections.
- Autoimmune disorders (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome)
- Genetic mutations (e.g., HLA-DRB1*08:01)
- Exposure to environmental toxins or infections
- Age (most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged women)
- Smoking (increases risk in some populations)
How is it Diagnosed
Diagnosis of PBC typically involves a combination of blood tests, imaging, and liver biopsy. The presence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) is a key indicator. Additional tests help assess liver function and rule out other conditions.
- Blood tests (AMA, liver enzymes, bilirubin, cholesterol)
Why Choose Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is primary biliary cholangitis?
Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic liver disease that slowly destroys the bile ducts in the liver. This leads to the buildup of bile, which can cause liver damage and eventually liver failure.
What are the common symptoms of PBC?
Common symptoms of PBC include fatigue, itching (pruritus), and dry eyes or mouth. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain, and swelling in the legs.
How is PBC diagnosed?
PBC is typically diagnosed through blood tests that check for specific antibodies and liver function. A liver biopsy may also be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of liver damage.
Can PBC be cured?
Currently, there is no cure for PBC, but the disease can be managed with medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid. Treatments aim to slow disease progression and manage symptoms to improve quality of life.
About Dr. Srinivas Bojanapu: MBBS, MS, FACRSI, DrNB, PDF (Fellowship – RGUHS). Hepatologist & Liver Transplant Surgeon with 16+ years experience. Performing 60+ liver transplants per year. Consults at Dhaara Liver Clinic (Yelahanka), Kauvery Hospital (Electronic City & Marathahalli), and more.