Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a progressive liver disease characterized by bile accumulation (cholestasis) that causes damage to the small bile ducts that drain bile from the liver. This pressure buildup eventually damages the bile ducts, causing liver cell destruction. Cirrhosis and liver failure develop as the disease advances and enough liver cells die. Bile is produced in the liver and then delivered via the bile ducts to the gallbladder and gut, where it aids in the digestion of fats and fat-soluble vitamins (A,D,E,K). When bile is unable to be emptied from the liver, it causes inflammation and cell death. Scar tissue progressively replaces the areas of the damaged liver, and the body is unable to execute essential processes. Causes of primary biliary cirrhosis PBC has an unclear cause. It is most likely an autoimmune disease, in which the immune system assaults the body's own cells. The bile ducts are attacked and damaged in this condition. Risk factors for prim...