Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: What the Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist Needs to Know

Abstract

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic, idiopathic biliary tract disease characterized by segmental strictures. The disease is progressive with no proven treatments and may eventually lead to cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease. Abrupt changes in liver biochemistries, pain, and/or cholangitis may suggest a dominant stricture amenable to endoscopic therapy or the development of cholangiocarcinoma. Patients with PSC are at increased risk of cholangiocarcinoma. There is a strong association with inflammatory bowel disease, and an associated increased risk of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy every 1 to 2 years is appropriate.

Keywords: Biliary tract disease; Cholangiocarcinoma; Cholestasis; Inflammatory bowel disease; Liver disease; Primary sclerosing cholangitis.