Secondary Biliary Cirrhosis

Secondary Biliary Cirrhosis is a liver condition caused by long-term blockage of the bile ducts, which are tubes that carry bile from the liver to the intestines. This blockage leads to a buildup of bile in the liver, causing damage to liver cells and scarring known as cirrhosis. The liver is part of the digestive system and helps process nutrients and remove toxins. When bile flow is obstructed, it can cause symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), itching, and fatigue. Over time, the liver damage can worsen, affecting its ability to function properly and leading to serious health problems.

Secondary Biliary Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease characterized by progressive destruction and fibrosis of the intrahepatic bile ducts due to prolonged extrahepatic biliary obstruction. The obstruction causes cholestasis, leading to bile acid accumulation, hepatocyte injury, and eventual fibrosis and cirrhosis. Common causes include bile duct strictures, gallstones, tumors, or surgical injury. This condition differs from primary biliary cirrhosis as it results from an identifiable mechanical cause rather than autoimmune destruction. Clinically, it presents with signs of cholestasis such as jaundice, pruritus, and elevated serum alkaline phosphatase. If untreated, it can progress to portal hypertension and liver failure.