What is the primary treatment for primary biliary cholangitis?

The primary treatment for primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA). PBC is an autoimmune condition characterized by the progressive destruction of bile ducts in the liver, leading to cholestasis, liver damage, and eventually liver failure. Ursodeoxycholic acid is a bile acid that helps to improve bile flow, reduces the toxic effects of hydrophobic bile acids, and may have a positive impact on liver biochemistry and histology.

UDCA works by promoting the excretion of bile, decreasing the absorption of hydrophobic bile acids in the intestine, and improving liver function tests. It is generally well tolerated and is the first-line therapeutic option for managing PBC, with evidence supporting its use in slowing disease progression and improving survival rates.

Other treatment options may not be as effective or applicable. For example, corticosteroids are primarily used in autoimmune conditions but are not the first-line treatment for PBC specifically. Surgical interventions may be necessary for complications that arise from the disease but are not standard treatment for PBC itself. Antiviral therapy is indicated for viral hepatitis but does not apply to PBC, which is not caused by a viral infection. Thus, ursodeoxycholic acid remains the