Understanding Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)

Gain clarity on PBC, a chronic autoimmune liver disease. Learn about its impact, our support, and how to manage your health with confidence and community.

What is Primary Biliary Cholangitis?

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the small bile ducts inside the liver. This damage prevents bile from flowing normally, leading to its buildup, inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), and potentially cirrhosis and liver failure if untreated.

The Liver Hope Foundation wants you to know two critical facts:

  1. PBC is an autoimmune disease. It is not caused by alcohol, poor lifestyle choices, or anything you did wrong. Your immune system mistakenly attacks the liver's bile ducts.
  2. Early diagnosis is important. Many individuals are diagnosed before symptoms appear due to abnormal liver blood tests. Early treatment can significantly slow disease progression and protect your liver health.

Our support for individuals and families affected by PBC

The Liver Hope Foundation provides comprehensive support to individuals and families affected by Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC). We offer trusted education, practical resources, emotional support, and guidance throughout every stage of the disease.

Our goal is to help you understand your diagnosis, feel confident in managing your health, and know that you are not alone. We provide:

  • Easy-to-understand guides explaining PBC, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.
  • Information about liver function, bile ducts, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and disease progression.
  • Educational materials on medications, monitoring, laboratory tests, and imaging studies.
  • Resources explaining common symptoms such as fatigue, itching, dry eyes, and dry mouth.

Take action for your liver health

Empower yourself by taking these important steps:

  • Work closely with your healthcare provider by discussing symptoms, treatment options, liver blood tests, and long-term monitoring if you have been diagnosed with Primary Biliary Cholangitis or think you may be at risk.
  • Continue learning by exploring our educational guides on autoimmune liver diseases, liver function, nutrition, medications, and healthy living.
  • Join a support group or educational program to connect with others living with PBC, share experiences, and learn practical strategies for managing a chronic liver disease.
  • Subscribe to our newsletter to receive trusted liver health information, research updates, educational articles, and announcements about webinars and community events.
  • Share this information with family members, caregivers, and friends so they can better understand PBC and provide informed support.
  • Support our mission by volunteering, participating in awareness campaigns, fundraising, and advocating for liver health.