In brief

• The AGA and AASLD have developed joint clinical guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of primary biliary cholangitis.
• The document is the first to evaluate newer drugs used in this chronic autoimmune liver disease.
• The disease attacks the small bile ducts in the liver and over time may lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, organ failure, and even transplantation.
• The guidelines emphasize tailoring therapy to the individual patient and are meant to structure care for patients.

New guidelines for patients with liver disease

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) have presented joint clinical guidelines on the diagnosis and treatment of primary biliary cholangitis (Zalecenia AGA i AASLD dotyczące pierwotnego zapalenia dróg żółciowych | UA.NEWS – ua.news). In this document, both organizations for the first time evaluate newer drugs intended for people living with this chronic autoimmune liver disease.

What primary biliary cholangitis is

The disease attacks the small bile ducts inside the liver. Impaired bile flow may over time lead to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, organ failure, and, in extreme cases, the need for a transplant.

An individualized approach to treatment

The guidelines emphasize tailoring therapy to the individual patient. The recommendations cover diagnosis and treatment, and their goal is to structure care for people with this disease.

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What this means for patients

Primary biliary cholangitis is a chronic condition that requires ongoing care from a specialist. Patients who have been diagnosed with this condition, or in whom it is only suspected, should discuss current treatment options with their treating physician. The new AGA and AASLD guidelines may serve specialists as a reference point when making treatment decisions.

Where to seek help

People with symptoms suggesting liver disease, such as chronic fatigue, itching of the skin, or jaundice, should see a family doctor, who will refer them to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist if needed. For sudden, severe symptoms, call 112 or go to a hospital emergency department.