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Kansas City Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Doctors

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Your Trusted Double - Board Certified Gastroenterologist

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Primary biliary cirrhosis is a liver disease that slowly destroys the bile ducts in the liver. Bile, a substance that helps digest fat, leaves the liver through these ducts. When the ducts are damaged, bile builds up in the liver and damages liver tissue. Over time, the disease can cause cirrhosis and may make the liver stop working.

For more information about this topic, visit:
American Liver Foundation

Causes

The cause of primary biliary cirrhosis is unknown. The disease affects women more often than men, and usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 60 years. Some research suggests that the disease might be caused by a problem within the immune system.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis are itchy skin and fatigue. Other symptoms include jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), cholesterol deposits on the skin, fluid retention, and dry eyes or mouth. Some people with primary biliary cirrhosis also have osteoporosis, arthritis, and thyroid problems.

Diagnosis

Primary biliary cirrhosis is diagnosed through laboratory tests, x-rays, and in some cases, a liver biopsy (a simple operation to remove a small piece of liver tissue). Treatment may include taking vitamin and calcium supplements, hormone therapy, and medicines to relieve symptoms. The medication Ursodiol is beneficial for patients with primary biliary cirrhosis, although it does not cure the disease. A liver transplant may be necessary if the liver is severely damaged.

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What Our Patients Say About Us

At Midwest GI Health we are proud to share our patient referrals from Healthgrades, Vitals, Google and Facebook. Please take some time to see how pleased our patients are with our professionalism and quality of care.

5/5

After years and years of stomach issues and having the same simple tests done with no results, I saw Dr. Taormina and he’s actually trying to help figure it all out, new tests…

Theresa Pond

5/5

The staff was very professional and friendly. The exam was explained by a nurse and the Anesthesiologist then came in to explain what she was going to do. Dr Taormina came…

Vitals Review

5/5

The facility is small enough you don’t feel like a number and big enough you know they have what they need in case of an emergency. Dr Taormina is easy to talk to and answers all questions. Explains everything well, easy to understand. The group of nurses are also great!

Bonnie, Warrensburg, MO