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  • Original Article
  • OPEN ACCESS

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: a Review Featuring a Women's Health Perspective

  • Renée M. Marchioni Beery*,1,
  • Haleh Vaziri1 and
  • Faripour Forouhar2
 Author information
Journal of Clinical and Translational Hepatology 2014;2(4):266-284

DOI: 10.14218/JCTH.2014.00024

Abstract

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two major types of chronic cholestatic liver disease. Each disorder has distinguishing features and variable progression, but both may ultimately result in cirrhosis and hepatic failure. The following offers a review of PBC and PSC, beginning with a general overview of disease etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, clinical features, natural course, and treatment. In addition to commonly associated manifestations of fatigue, pruritus, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiency, select disease-related topics pertaining to women's health are discussed including metabolic bone disease, hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular risk, and pregnancy-related issues influencing maternal disease course and birth outcomes. This comprehensive review of PBC and PSC highlights some unique clinical considerations in the care of female patients with cholestatic liver disease.

Keywords

Primary biliary cirrhosis, Primary sclerosing cholangitis, Cholestasis, Women's health, Metabolic bone disease, Hyperlipidemia, Pregnancy, Fatigue, Pruritus, Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency

Introduction

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) are two major types of chronic cholestatic liver disease. Both are slowly progressive disorders, coursing over 10–20 years from early to end-stage liver disease.1 The incidence and prevalence of these conditions appear to be rising.2 Cholestasis results from impaired bile formation and/or flow and may manifest clinically as fatigue, pruritus, and jaundice. Early biochemical markers of cholestasis include elevated levels of serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) with conjugated hyperbilirubinemia in more advanced stages. Chronic cholestasis is generally defined by persistent abnormalities lasting >6 months.

The purpose of this work is to provide an overview of PBC and PSC as cholestatic liver disorders, with a focused, clinically-oriented review of commonly associated manifestations (fatigue, pruritus, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiency). This is followed by a description of disease-related clinical consequences as they relate to women's health. Knowledge of gender-specific issues in chronic liver disease is of particular relevance in the setting of PBC, as it is a female-predominant entity. Furthermore, heightened awareness and improved diagnostic testing have resulted in disease detection in younger women, including those with childbearing potential. Important women's health issues that will be addressed in this review include metabolic bone disease (MBD), hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease risk, and the influence of pregnancy on maternal disease and birth outcomes.

Primary biliary cirrhosis

PBC is a complex, chronic, and slowly progressive autoimmune liver disease that predominantly affects women. It is thought to be triggered by environmental factors in genetically susceptible individuals2 and is characterized by cholestatic liver biochemistries, the presence of antimitochondrial antibodies (AMAs), and predominantly T-lymphocyte-mediated destruction of small intrahepatic bile ducts. Portal inflammation with varying degrees of fibrosis can be seen histologically (Figs. 1–2).3 Progressive bile duct deterioration results in impaired secretion and hepatic retention of bile acid toxins. Pathophysiologic changes in PBC occur at different rates with variable degrees of severity and may ultimately lead to cirrhosis and hepatic failure without liver transplantation (LT).4

H&E, X100; Liver biopsy.
Fig. 1  H&E, X100; Liver biopsy.

The classic appearance of primary biliary cirrhosis in its early portal inflammatory stage demonstrating granulomatous features with interface hepatitis. The inflammatory infiltrate is typically composed of lymphocytes and plasma cells. The lymphocytes may form lymphoid nodules, occasionally with germinal centers. Inflammation typically surrounds the interlobular bile ducts that might show evidence of injury. Abbreviation: H&E (Hematoxylin & Eosin).

H&E, X200; Liver biopsy.
Fig. 2  H&E, X200; Liver biopsy.

An absence/paucity of bile ducts is seen with focal chronic inflammation in a portal area consistent with late-stage primary biliary cirrhosis.

AMA, a characteristic and highly disease-specific autoantibody directed against the E2 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, is present in approximately 90–95% of affected PBC patients and <1% of normal controls.3 Approximately 5–10% of patients with PBC are AMA negative.1 Most patients have an elevated serum immunoglobulin (Ig) M, although this is neither highly sensitive nor specific. Total gamma globulin concentrations tend to remain normal and drop with the development of cirrhosis.

Epidemiology and risk factors

PBC has a female:male ratio of 10:1 and is most often diagnosed in middle-aged to elderly Caucasian females.2,5 Disease incidence and prevalence vary widely and have been reported to range from 0.33 to 5.8 per 100,000 inhabitants/year and from 1.9 to 40.2 per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively.2 The risk of PBC is increased in those with a positive family history. In a large US study involving 1,032 PBC patients across 23 tertiary referral centers for liver disease matched with 1,041 controls, PBC occurrence in a first-degree relative was reported by 5.9% of cases and 0.5% of controls (P<0.001). Familial PBC was reported most often in mothers (1.7%) and sisters (4.3%) compared to controls (P<0.001).6 Multiple logistic regression showed that a family history of PBC in a first-degree relative was significantly associated with disease risk, with an adjusted odds ratio of 10.7 (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.2–27.3).6 Other associated risk factors include concurrent autoimmune disease, lifestyle factors such as past or current cigarette smoking, infectious triggers (particularly urinary and vaginal infections), and environmental influences such as toxic and chemical exposures (including nail polish and hair dye).5–8 Reports on the role of smoking, estrogens, or gravidity in promoting PBC are conflicting. Although some studies have documented risks,6,7,9 a large recent population-based study found no association of PBC with smoking, age at menarche or first pregnancy, or gravidity.10 Prevalent coexisting autoimmune conditions include Sjögren syndrome, scleroderma, and Hashimoto thyroiditis.4

Diagnosis and testing

PBC diagnosis requires two of the three following objective criteria: 1) biochemical evidence of cholestasis based primarily on elevated level of serum ALP (>1.5 times (x) the upper limit of normal, ULN); 2) presence of serum AMA (titers ≥1:40); and 3) liver histology characterized by nonsuppurative cholangitis and interlobular bile duct destruction.3,5,11 AMA-positive patients with normal liver biochemistries should have yearly laboratory monitoring for the development of cholestasis.11 In patients who are AMA negative and have liver biopsy findings of possible PBC (or PSC), genetic testing for ABCB4 (encoding the canilicular phospholipid transporter) deficiency should be considered.11,12 Family members (particularly female first-degree relatives) should be screened for PBC by testing serum ALP, and elevations should prompt checking AMA.3

PBC overlap with autoimmune hepatitis

A small subgroup of patients demonstrates features of both PBC and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). A majority have positive AMA serology with histologic features of AIH and show an excellent response to steroid therapy. Another group of patients frequently classified with overlap have negative AMA serology but test positive for anti-smooth muscle antibody (ASMA) ± antinuclear antibody (ANA) and show histologic features of PBC. This condition may be regarded as an AMA-negative form of PBC and is also referred to as immune cholangiopathy or autoimmune cholangitis. The Paris criteria can be used to diagnose PBC-AIH overlap syndrome.13

Natural history and disease progression

As aforementioned, PBC is a progressive disorder that advances variably among individuals and can span over several decades. PBC patient survival appears significantly decreased compared to age- and sex-matched controls, even with the exclusion of liver-related deaths. Median survival has been reported at 9.3 years following diagnosis.14 Irrespective of symptoms, patients with early PBC not treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) have a shorter survival compared to healthy controls.3,14 Median time from diagnosis to symptom appearance is 2.0–4.2 years, and median survival beyond the onset of symptoms has been reported at 5–8 years.3,14,15 Histologic stage has been shown to predict survival in PBC.3 Without effective therapy, the disease appears to advance by approximately one stage every 1.5 years, and the median time to developing extensive fibrosis is 2 years.16,17

Treatment

UDCA demonstrates anti-cholestatic and anti-fibrotic effects and is the primary pharmacotherapy used for PBC. The compound neutralizes toxic bile acids retained in the liver and significantly decreases biochemical markers including serum bilirubin and ALP.18 Additional improvements in serum aminotransferases, GGT, plasma IgM concentration, and total cholesterol have been noted.18 UDCA delays histologic disease progression and improves the natural history and overall prognosis of PBC, particularly in patients showing response to the drug.17,19,20 UDCA has been shown to decrease the risk of developing esophageal varices,21 and long-term treatment over 4 years appears to significantly improve survival free of LT compared to placebo.22 A Cochrane Database Systematic Review (1,447 patients, 16 randomized clinical trials) showed that UDCA had a beneficial effect on histologic disease progression, but it did not support favorable UDCA effects on all-cause mortality, LT, fatigue, or pruritus.18

UDCA is generally safe and well-tolerated in pre- and post-LT patients.3,18,23 A standard dosing regimen of 13–15 mg/kg/day is recommended for PBC patients with abnormal liver enzyme values (regardless of symptoms or histologic stage) and should be continued indefinitely.3 Higher UDCA doses (23–25 mg/kg/day) compared to standard doses do not appear to have significant added benefits in improving symptoms, biochemistries (aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and ALP), Mayo risk score, or duodenal bile acid enrichment.24

Liver biochemistries should be performed every 3–6 months, and a majority (90%) of laboratory improvement is expected within 6–9 months.3 Patients with a Mayo risk score <4.5 (P<0.04) and/or serum ALP <2-fold ULN (P<0.04) after 6 months of UDCA therapy appear more likely to have a positive response to UDCA over a 2 year period.24 Observational studies demonstrate that biochemical response to UDCA in PBC correlates favorably with long-term outcomes and survival without LT.24,25 Incomplete biochemical response to UDCA, seen in up to 40%, can identify patients at higher risk for disease progression.5 The biochemical criteria that most appropriately define UDCA treatment response are debated and include: ALP <3x ULN, AST <2x ULN, and normal bilirubin after 1 year of UDCA;26 ALP and AST ≤ 1.5x ULN with bilirubin ≤1 mg/dL after 1 year of UDCA;27 ALP decline >40% from baseline or to normal after 1 year of UDCA;25 ALP ≤ 1.67x ULN (with histologic endpoint defining nonresponse as a one-stage increase in fibrosis) or ALP≤1.76 (with histologic endpoint defining nonresponse as a two-stage increase in fibrosis) after 2 years of UDCA;28 and normalization of abnormal bilirubin and/or albumin levels after 1 year of UDCA.29 Patients with optimal biochemical measures, defined as ALP≤1.67x ULN and bilirubin≤1 mg/dL following 1 year of UDCA treatment, were least likely to develop adverse clinical endpoints of ascites, encephalopathy, varices, LT, or death over 2 subsequent years compared to subjects with higher biochemical values.30 In addition, ductopenia (>50% loss) on baseline liver biopsy appeared to be a predictive factor of biochemical response to UDCA and histologic progression over extended followup.28 Patient compliance and superimposed liver disorders should be considered, and bile acid sequestrants can be added in the setting of suboptimal UDCA response.11,16

Disease course and prognosis

A retrospective analysis (n=216) showed that PBC patients who were symptomatic at disease onset were more often female and of younger age with higher ALP and aminotransferase elevations compared to an asymptomatic group, despite similar autoantibody profiles and histologic disease stage. Symptomatic patients were less likely to respond to UDCA and progressed more frequently and more rapidly to cirrhosis and its associated complications, including ascites, esophageal variceal hemorrhage, hepatocellular carcinoma, LT-listing or surgery, or death due to liver failure.20 Incomplete UDCA response, inconsistent UDCA treatment, and advanced histologic disease stage are among risk factors for hepatic decompensation in PBC.31

Many patients (50–65%) are now diagnosed in asymptomatic phases, reflecting increased awareness and testing for PBC.4 Treatment with UDCA, particularly for early-stage but also for late-stage PBC, has improved prognostic data compared to decades ago when no medical therapy was available.32,33 Long-term UDCA has an important long-term therapeutic effect, particularly for patients with nonadvanced, noncirrhotic disease.34 Up to 40% of patients diagnosed with early-stage PBC and initiated promptly on UDCA can remain at an early stage for at least 20 years from diagnosis.8 Survival in UDCA-treated patients is better than in untreated patients and greater than that predicted by the Mayo model.35 Prognostic factors of survival include serum bilirubin and albumin concentrations and the presence of cirrhosis.22,34,36 Fewer LTs and longer survival periods for PBC have been reported.37

Primary sclerosing cholangitis

PSC is an idiopathic cholestatic hepatobiliary disease characterized by chronic inflammation, progressive fibrosis, and stricturing of medium and large-sized extrahepatic and/or intrahepatic bile ducts (Fig. 3–4).38 Continuous destruction yields bile duct narrowing and eventual obliteration with disappearance of small bile ducts and diffuse, multifocal biliary strictures. Segmental bile duct dilation proximal to areas of stricture creates a characteristic cholangiographic appearance of beading (Fig. 5). Chronic inflammation leads to fibrosis of the hepatic parenchyma and biliary tree. PSC typically progresses slowly over 10–15 years, eventually leading to biliary cirrhosis and premature death due to decompensated liver disease in a majority of patients. Additional complications of PSC include hepatic osteodystrophy, dominant bile duct strictures, recurrent cholangitis, and disease-associated malignancies including hepatobiliary (particularly cholangiocarcinoma), pancreatic, and colorectal (particularly with inflammatory bowel disease, IBD) cancers. PSC has rarely been associated with multifocal fibrosclerotic disease such as mediastinal, retroperitoneal, and periureteral fibrosis.

Trichrome, X40; Liver Biopsy.
Fig. 3  Trichrome, X40; Liver Biopsy.

Low power view demonstrating a focal lesion typical for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Periductular layered fibrosis (characteristic “onion skin” pattern) is seen with edema and inflammation surrounding the interlobular bile ducts in the center of the field. A normal portal area with bile ducts is seen in the upper right corner of the image.

Trichrome, X400; Liver biopsy.
Fig. 4  Trichrome, X400; Liver biopsy.

Typical focal lesion of primary sclerosing cholangitis demonstrating “onion skin” concentric fibrosis and chronic periductular inflammation. Notice significant edema in this relatively early phase of fibrosis.

Fig. 5  

Magnetic resonance cholangiogram in a patient with primary sclerosing cholangitis demonstrating characteristic findings of multifocal biliary strictures with intervening dilation and areas of sacculation.

Epidemiology

PSC has a male predominance (2:1) and can occur at any age with a diagnostic peak at 30–40 years.11,39 Women tend to be diagnosed later at an average age of approximately 45 years.40 The incidence and prevalence of PSC vary widely and have been estimated to range from 0 to 1.3 per 100,000 inhabitants/year and from 0 to 16.2 per 100,000 inhabitants, respectively.2

Etiology

The etiology of PSC is not fully understood, but it appears to be a heterogeneous and multifactorial disorder with genetic, immune-mediated, and other contributions. Although the genetic predispositions are not well-understood, the strongest risk factor is linked to human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) including major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes encoded on chromosome 6.41,42 Sixteen risk genes have been reported, comprising <10% of approximate overall PSC susceptibility.42 Described genetic associations (for example, with HLA and fucosyltransferase 2) may be influenced by environmental triggers.42–48 PSC has been linked with a variety of factors associated with abnormal humoral and cell-mediated immunity and can coexist with other autoimmune conditions such as IBD, thyroid disorders, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and celiac disease.48,49 Little is known about the nongenetic risk factors for PSC, although patients are usually nonsmokers.50–53 Translocation of intestinal bacteria or toxins across inflamed colonic mucosa into the portal circulation may result in hepatobiliary inflammation and can lead to the pathologic and cholangiographic appearance of PSC.39

There is currently no specific marker for PSC disease or severity, although the prevalence of perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (p-ANCA) has been reported to range from 33–85% in patients with PSC and 40–87% in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).54–57 These anti-neutrophil specific antibodies, found at high frequencies and almost exclusively in IBD, PSC, and AIH, are also called “atypical p-ANCA” due to their staining pattern under indirect immunofluorescence microscopy that is distinct from the “classical p-ANCA” associated with microscopic polyangiitis.55 P-ANCA has been reported in 0 to <10% of healthy controls.54,58 A high degree of ANCA specificity (predominantly isotypes IgG1 and IgG3) has been detected for both PSC and UC.59,60 Other nonspecific autoantibodies in PSC include ANA, ASMA, anti-cardiolipin antibody, and rheumatoid factor.61 Elevated levels of circulating immune complexes62 and hypergammaglobulinemia (preferentially elevated serum IgM in 45% of patients; elevated IgG in some cases) have also been reported.39,48

The risk of PSC is higher in patients with a family history of the disease.63 Disease prevalence in first-degree relatives of PSC patients has been reported at 0.7%, with a prevalence of 1.5% among siblings.64 First-degree relatives of PSC patients without IBD appear to be at increased risk for developing IBD, particularly UC.65 P-ANCA has also been reported in 25% and 30% of unaffected first-degree relatives of PSC and UC patients, respectively.66

PSC and IBD

A close association exists between PSC and IBD.38,40,67 The most frequently associated IBD type is UC, seen in approximately 70–86% of PSC patients.38,68,69 The prevalence of PSC in UC has been reported to range from 2.4–7.4%.70 The median interval between initial IBD diagnosis and subsequent PSC is 6.9 years,71 although the diagnosis of PSC can be made prior to that of IBD72 or even several years after proctocolectomy for UC.63 IBD can also recur or manifest de novo after LT for PSC.73 IBD in PSC runs its course independently of the liver disease. There is a high prevalence of pancolitis in cases of PSC-IBD, although disease activity in this group is often mild and occasionally asymptomatic.67,72 PSC-IBD is also frequently associated with rectal sparing and backwash ileitis and may represent a distinct IBD phenotype.67,74 Proctocolectomy as a surgical treatment for UC has not been shown to influence liver biochemistries, histology, or survival in PSC patients.63

Diagnosis

PSC is commonly found incidentally, and up to 50% of patients are asymptomatic at the time of diagnosis.75 Initial presentation in symptomatic patients typically includes fatigue, pruritus, weight loss, and right upper quadrant abdominal pain. Cholangitis is an uncommon first manifestation in the absence of prior intervention such as biliary surgery or endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).

If abdominal ultrasound and AMA are nondiagnostic in the initial cholestasis workup, further imaging should be pursued. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is the diagnostic imaging test of choice for suspected PSC. MRCP is non-invasive and avoids radiation exposure, although early PSC may be missed using this modality. Endoscopic ultrasound can be used as an alternative to MRCP in evaluating distal biliary tract obstruction.11 ERCP was once considered the diagnostic gold standard for PSC, but it is an invasive test requiring radiation and has been linked with complications that can require hospitalization in >10% of PSC patients undergoing the procedure.76 Although not recommended as a first-line modality, ERCP can be employed in some circumstances, such as in establishing large-duct PSC with suboptimal MRCP views. Characteristic cholangiographic findings include diffuse multifocal bile duct strictures and segmental dilatation yielding a beaded appearance. Liver biopsy is not required for diagnosis but is recommended in patients with normal cholangiographic findings to exclude small-duct PSC and in patients with disproportionately elevated aminotransferases to exclude overlap syndrome.

Associated conditions for consideration, as described briefly below, include small-duct PSC, PSC overlap conditions including AIH and autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), and IgG4-associated sclerosing cholangitis. Causes of secondary sclerosing cholangitis that resemble PSC but have a known pathologic origin must be excluded. Such involve surgical injury or blunt abdominal trauma, toxic consequence of intra-arterial chemotherapy, intraductal stone disease, and recurrent pancreatitis. Other secondary causes include recurrent pyogenic cholangitis, eosinophilic cholangitis, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome cholangiopathy, portal biliopathy, and ischemic cholangiopathy, among others.77

Small-duct PSC variant

Small-duct PSC is characterized by clinical, histologic, and biochemical evidence of PSC with a normal cholangiogram11 and is confirmed with liver biopsy.78 The entity, seen in 5.8% of PSC patients, has been described as an earlier stage or mild variant of large-duct disease and generally has a more favorable prognosis relative to large-duct PSC.78 An increased survival to death or LT has been reported in small-duct compared with large-duct PSC.79 Some patients initially diagnosed with small-duct PSC, however, can develop classic PSC and end-stage liver disease with consequent need for LT.78,80

PSC overlap conditions

Conditions with features of both PSC and other immune-mediated conditions, known as PSC overlap syndromes, include AIH and AIP. In PSC-AIH overlap, histologic features of AIH and cholangiographic features of PSC are seen.81 Elevated IgG autoantibodies and interface hepatitis are often present.82 Common serologic abnormalities include positive ASMA and ANA (in up to 75% of patients) and elevated IgM levels (in up to 50% of patients). Up to 60% of PSC patients may have elevated IgG4.38

Management of PSC-AIH may be challenging. Combination treatment for PSC-AIH with UDCA and immunosuppressant therapy (prednisone ± azathioprine or 6-mercaptopurine) is recommended but not supported by data from large, randomized controlled trials.11,83 In a small number of patients with PSC-AIH overlap, UDCA in addition to corticosteroids appeared beneficial with a significant reduction in AST over a 5-year treatment course; no significant changes were noted in ALP or GGT. These patients with PSC-AIH overlap appeared to have a more favorable cumulative survival compared to patients with classic PSC.81

AIP is a rare, systemic fibrotic disorder characterized by generalized pancreatic enlargement, pancreatic ductal narrowing/strictures, biliary strictures, and elevated serum IgG4 levels.84 Cases without pancreatic duct involvement are termed IgG4-associated cholangitis. Increased serum IgG4 levels with an infiltration of IgG4+ plasma cells into bile ducts and liver tissue results from an autoimmune or idiopathic mechanism. Guidelines advocate checking IgG4 levels to exclude IgG4-associated sclerosing cholangitis in all patients with suspected PSC.38 A trial of steroid therapy is recommended in this group, as normalization of liver enzymes and improvement or resolution of biliary strictures frequently occur.38,85

Disease course and progression

Asymptomatic PSC patients appear to have a decreased average survival relative to age- and sex-matched controls.40,86 The natural history of PSC is highly variable, with reported average survival rates from diagnosis to death or LT ranging from 12–18 years.2,68,87 A recent population-based study from the Netherlands reported an even higher median survival time of 21.3 years.79

PSC and malignancy

Patients with PSC are at increased risk for developing such malignancies as hepatobiliary (cholangiocarcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma, and gallbladder carcinoma), colorectal, and pancreatic cancers (Table 1) that require dedicated attention alongside age-appropriate cancer screening protocols.

Table 1

Malignancy screening in primary sclerosing cholangitis

Cholangiocarcinoma

  • Investigation for CCA should be pursued with clinical suspicion based on:38

    • Altered liver biochemical parameters

    • Development of dominant biliary stricture

    • Decline in constitutional performance status

    • Clinical symptoms such as jaundice, abdominal pain, or weight loss

  • Suggested screening approach includes:38

    • MR imaging (MRI/MRCP) of liver

    • Measurement of serum CA 19-9

    • ERCP for investigation of dominant stricture or elevated CA 19-9; biliary biopsy and brush cytology with molecular testing by FISH analysis where available

Colorectal Cancer

  • Colonoscopy with biopsies at initial PSC diagnosis and thereafter as follows:11,38

    • Surveillance colonoscopy with biopsies every 1 year for PSC patients who have IBD or are post-liver transplantation11,191

    • Surveillance colonoscopy with biopsies every 5 years in PSC patients without IBD192

  • UDCA is currently not recommended for chemoprevention in PSC-UC38

Gallbladder Cancer

  • Abdominal ultrasound yearly11,38

    • Detection of mass lesion(s) in the gallbladder should prompt cholecystectomy in appropriate surgical candidates11,38

Hepatocellular Carcinoma

  • Abdominal ultrasound every 6 months193

  • Measurement of serum alpha-fetoprotein can be considered

Abbreviations: CCA (cholangiocarcinoma); MRI (magnetic resonance imaging); MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography); CA (carbohydrate antigen); ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography); FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization); PSC (primary sclerosing cholangitis); IBD (inflammatory bowel disease); UDCA (ursodeoxycholic acid); UC (ulcerative colitis).

Therapy

There is currently no effective therapy for PSC that affects mortality other than LT for end-stage disease. Recurrent PSC is a risk even after LT,88 and median survival without a second LT in recurrent PSC is reported at 9.1 months.89

Data to support the use of UDCA in PSC have been controversial. A Cochrane Database Systematic Review (eight randomized clinical trials; 592 PSC patients reporting a range of UDCA doses) found that, although UDCA appeared safe and well-tolerated, it may not significantly reduce the risk of death, histologic disease progression, cholangiographic deterioration, or clinical decompensation (encephalopathy, varices, ascites, or LT) compared to placebo or no intervention.23 A subsequent meta-analysis including eight randomized trials (five using standard-dose UDCA and three using high-dose UDCA) and 567 PSC patients showed no significant difference in pruritus, fatigue, histologic stage progression, cholangiocarcinoma, or mortality compared to placebo or no intervention.90 Furthermore, high-dose UDCA (28–30 mg/kg/day) was not associated with a survival advantage and was linked with an increased risk of serious adverse events.91

Although UDCA can improve liver biochemistries and surrogate prognostic markers, its use has not shown survival benefit,11 and it is not recommended as a medical therapy in PSC.38 Treatment with immunosuppressant and anti-fibrotic drugs has not demonstrated consistent improvement in disease activity or clinical outcomes in classic PSC. Many agents have failed to demonstrate sustained benefit, including cyclosporine, tacrolimus, methotrexate, pentoxifylline, D-penicillamine, colchicine, cholestyramine, and nicotine.92 As aforementioned, certain PSC subgroups with overlap features appear to benefit from corticosteroid and immunosuppressant therapy.38,81,85,93

Clinical manifestations of PBC and PSC

Common symptoms of PBC and PSC include fatigue, pruritus, and upper abdominal discomfort, although over 50% of patients are asymptomatic at diagnosis.2 Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency may be detected, particularly with advanced liver disease.

Fatigue

Fatigue is experienced in up to 78% of patients with PBC.3 It has also been described in PSC although less extensively studied. The symptom is nonspecific, multifactorial, and potentially incapacitating. Conditions such as anemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or depression should be considered and excluded.11 The etiology of the fatigue has not been fully elucidated,3 and there is no well-established treatment.4 It has been linked to abnormal corticotrophin-releasing hormone94 and serotonin neurotransmission systems,95 although fluvoxamine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and σ1 agonist), fluoxetine (a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), and ondansetron (a selective 5-HT3 receptor antagonist) do not appear effective.96–98 Oral antioxidant supplementation (vitamins A, C, E, and selenium) has shown no beneficial effect in reducing fatigue.99 In an open-label study, modafinil (a central nervous system stimulator) was shown to improve excess daytime somnolence and fatigue severity.100 While most patients (66%) were able to tolerate modafinil over 2 months, others experienced significant headaches that resolved immediately with drug discontinuation.100 UDCA has not been shown to improve fatigue in PBC.3 Severe fatigue may interfere with quality of life, worsen with advanced cirrhosis, and contribute to a decline in overall survival.101

Supportive care measures, such as minimizing potential hindrances to sleep (e.g., caffeine intake in evening) and avoiding factors that promote autonomic nervous system dysfunction (e.g., excess antihypertensive, antihistamine, or sedative medications), should be employed. In addition, psychological support and the establishment of healthy coping mechanisms should be encouraged. LT is not recommended for fatigue alone in the absence of other indications.11

Pruritus

Pruritus is variably reported in cholestasis. Its natural history, related pathogenesis, and molecular mechanisms are under continued investigation.95,102 Contributing factors include bile acid stasis as well as accumulation of biliary compounds and pruritogens into the systemic circulation and peripheral tissues.3 Increased opioidergic and serotoninergic neurotransmission and the influence of estrogens/progesterones have also been described.3,103,104 Additionally, lipophospholipase autotaxin and its product, lysophosphatidic acid (a potent neuronal activator), have been implicated.102,104,105 Histamine unlikely contributes to cholestatic pruritus.102,104 Although pruritus is not regarded as a prognostic factor, it can decrease quality of life and can contribute to depression and sleep deprivation.8,102,106 UDCA generally does not relieve pruritus in PBC.3 A stepwise treatment approach includes: cholestyramine as a first-line agent; rifampicin as a second-line agent; naltrexone as a third-line agent; and sertraline as a fourth-line agent.11 In refractory cases, experimental treatments and referral to specialized centers can be considered, and such methods as extracorporeal albumin dialysis, plasmapheresis, and nasobiliary drainage may be attempted.11 UV-B therapy has also been suggested.102 LT for disabling, refractory pruritus is effective but should only be considered if all other options are unsuccessful.11

Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency

Malabsorption, steatorrhea, and fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies are uncommon except in cases of advanced liver disease and long-standing, severe cholestasis.107,108 Steatorrhea and dietary fat malabsorption, predominantly due to decreased bile acid secretion into the small intestinal lumen, can predispose to weight loss. As luminal bile acid levels in severe cholestasis are below the critical concentration required for micelle formation and subsequent lipid absorption, clinically relevant fat-soluble vitamin (A, D, E, K) deficiencies may exist.16,109 Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and rarely celiac disease may be associated and should be excluded.16,92,110 Deficiencies in vitamins A, D, E, and K have been reported in 33.5%, 13.2%, 1.9%, and 7.8% of PBC patients, respectively.109 Vitamin A deficiency appears to be significantly associated with advanced PBC stage, decreased cholesterol, and increased Mayo risk score. Low serum albumin level, high Mayo risk score, and elevated total bilirubin have been shown to be independently associated with vitamin D deficiency. Relatively fewer patients have vitamin E or K deficiencies.109 Blood testing to determine fat-soluble vitamin levels should be performed at the time of PBC or PSC diagnosis and periodically thereafter, especially in the setting of advanced cholestasis. Vitamin supplementation should be administered as necessary in cases of steatorrhea and clinical deficiency.92,107–109

Clinical consequences of PBC and PSC relating to women's health

Metabolic bone disease

MBD is a major focus in women's health and is especially important in post-menopausal females, who are also most commonly diagnosed with PBC. MBD with premature cortical thinning is a recognized complication of chronic liver disease and is seen in a majority of patients, particularly those with advanced stages and high degrees of cholestasis.3,11 Ranging from osteopenia (least severe) to osteoporosis to osteomalacia (most severe), the skeletal conditions are broadly termed “hepatic osteodystrophy” in the setting of chronic liver disease.

MBD has been documented in up to 77% of patients with advanced PBC or PSC.111 Although often asymptomatic, MBD can result in recurrent fractures, impaired quality of life, augmented economic burden, and increased morbidity and mortality.112 Limited physical activity (due to fatigue and the burdens of chronic illness), nutritional deficiencies, and peri-menopausal estrogen decline can all negatively impact bone mass in female PBC and PSC patients.

The exact mechanism of MBD in chronic cholestatic liver disease is not distinctly defined, and its etiology appears to be multifactorial. Retained bilirubin in advanced cholestasis negatively impacts osteoblast function and leads to imbalanced patterns of bone metabolism.113 Low bone formation and increased bone turnover rates have been implicated in the process113–115 and predispose to fracture risk.115 Some studies have reported similar age- and sex-adjusted bone mineral density (BMD) values for males and females with PBC and PSC, suggesting a common etiologic factor.111,116,117 Other reports have demonstrated that postmenopausal cirrhotic women are at a significantly higher risk for longitudinal bone mineral loss relative to age- and sex-matched healthy controls; this difference was not detected in cirrhotic males, however, whose changes in bone mineral content over time were comparable to healthy male controls.118 As osteoporosis severity appears to parallel the natural progression of PBC and PSC, optimizing bone health is particularly important in patients with advanced disease.

Hepatic osteodystrophy may be influenced by vitamin and mineral abnormalities, specifically for patients with advanced cholestasis and steatorrhea who are prone to fat-soluble vitamin depletion. Although serum concentrations of calcium and physiologically active vitamin D metabolites (25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D) are typically normal,92 vitamin D deficiency can be present in cases of malabsorption and may be intensified with the use of cholestyramine and similar agents. Deficiency of vitamin K, known to promote the conversion of protein-bound glutamate residues to γ-carboxyglutamate in a variety of bone proteins such as osteocalcin, can lead to undercarboxylated or deficient osteocalcin that may, in turn, be associated with bone fragility.119

Retained lithocholic acid (LCA) in cholestasis damages osteoblasts and acts as a mild vitamin D analogue that interferes with the vitamin D receptor pathway, leading to decreased expression of genes involved in bone formation.120 The detrimental effects of LCA could be worse in patients with low albumin, as seen in advanced cholestasis. In vitro, UDCA has been shown to promote osteoblast differentiation and mineralization and to neutralize the toxic effects of bilirubin and LCA on osteoblastic cells.121 Additional factors influencing BMD include hormonal deficiencies (such as estrogen, testosterone, and insulin-like growth factor-1), trace element deficiencies (including zinc, copper, and iron), hepcidin deficiency and iron overload conditions (including hereditary hemochromatosis, thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, and African hemosiderosis), renal tubular acidosis, parathyroid dysfunction, and immunosuppression, among others.115,120,122–128

Osteoporosis prevalence appears greater in women with PBC versus age- and sex-matched controls.129–131 Higher fracture risk has also been reported in PBC patients compared with the general population and patients with other chronic liver diseases.129,130,132 Fracture prevalence in PBC ranges from approximately 10–21%.115 Factors that increase the osteoporotic risk in PBC, as in the general population, include advanced age and low body mass index129,130,133,134 Other predisposing risk factors for osteoporosis in female PBC patients include postmenopausal state, vitamin D deficiency, and longer duration (>4 years) of PBC.130,131 PBC severity may impact osteoporotic risk and severity of MBD, although this has been debated.114,129,130,133,134 One study documented a 5.4-fold increased risk of osteoporosis in advanced PBC cases compared to those with less severe disease.133 Severity of low bone mass is associated with morbidity in PBC due to fractures, pain, and skeletal deformity.135 Severe bone disease fortunately appears to be decreasing in PBC patients, perhaps due to improvements in MBD screening and therapy.4

There are fewer studies of MBD in PSC relative to PBC. The incidence of osteoporosis in PSC is reported at 4–10%.38 Advanced age, low body mass index, and hypogonadism (influenced by low testosterone and estrogen decline) can contribute.112,115,116 In PSC-IBD patients, the rate of bone loss and risks for osteoporosis appear to increase with IBD duration; such may be explained by the use of corticosteroid therapy and the presence of inflammatory cytokines.116,136

Bone health is particularly vulnerable in the pre- and post-LT settings. One of the most important factors in developing post-LT MBD is the degree of osteopenia at the time of LT surgery. Additionally, corticosteroid and immunosuppressant use (e.g., cyclosporine A and tacrolimus), poor nutrition, and immobility can negatively impact post-LT BMD.115 MBD and fracture risk after LT in PBC and PSC are not only influenced by pretransplant low BMD but are also compounded by early, accelerated post-transplant bone loss.111 The greatest decline in bone loss appears in the first 3–6 post-operative months,115 and most fractures occur within the first post-operative year.115 BMD restoration has been demonstrated within the first 2–3 years following LT.111,137 Successful LT appears to increase bone density over time, particularly in patients who achieve normal hepatic function and whose nutritional status and gonadal hormone levels improve after surgery.111,138

Testing and therapeutic interventions for MBD

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) testing is the gold standard for assessing BMD and should be performed in all newly diagnosed PBC and PSC cases and in settings of cirrhosis, fragility fracture, long-term glucocorticoid use (≥3 months), and LT.11,38,135,139 Determinants of bone metabolism should be checked including serum calcium, phosphate, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels with measurement of free testosterone in males.115 In patients with a normal baseline DEXA, testing should be repeated every 2–3 years to exclude the development of significant bone loss.115 Rescreening should be performed more frequently, up to yearly, in patients with profound cholestasis, prolonged or high-dose steroid exposure, or other individual risk factors for MBD and fractures.11,133,135

Regarding treatment, UDCA may not influence the rate of bone loss in PBC or PSC.140,141 Most therapies used to treat osteoporosis in the general population have been studied in PBC patients including bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), calcitonin, and sodium fluoride.135,142–146 Bisphosphonate therapy is indicated for osteoporosis, fragility fractures, or prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids (≥3 months) and may be considered at a T-score ≤1.5 when accompanied by other risk factors.11 Parenteral bisphosphonates are preferred in patients with esophageal varices due to the potential risk of esophageal ulcers with oral formulations.38 There have been no controlled trials conducted on the use of bisphosphonates in PSC. HRT with estrogen can be considered to preserve bone health in older females with hepatic osteodystrophy and is advised for use in the settings of early menopause (age<45 years) and female hypogonadism in order to prevent osteoporosis and to reduce fracture risk.114,115 HRT appears to improve BMD and decrease the rate of bone loss in PBC.147–149 Although HRT is reserved for certain situations, it has not been routinely recommended for the treatment of MBD associated with cholestasis in females,11,115 as it has been linked with significant adverse events and has not shown significant beneficial effects on LT or liver-related morbidity or mortality in PBC.146 Some studies have demonstrated no significant changes in liver biochemistries, while worsening cholestasis has been reported in others.146–150 Transdermal estrogen evades first-pass hepatic metabolism and may reduce cholestatic potential of HRT.115,151 Other therapies for MBD such as raloxifene, calcitonin, and parathyroid hormone replacement can be considered, and administration should be directed by a bone specialist.115

Hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease risk

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of female death, and its associated risk with hyperlipidemia has been well-established in the general population.152 Despite the marked hypercholesterolemia common in PBC, patients do not appear to have an increased mortality risk due to atherosclerosis.153,154

Lipid aberrations in cholestasis

Serum lipid abnormalities are frequent in PBC and PSC.108,155 Decreased biliary lipid secretion contributes to profound hyperlipidemia, with notably high free cholesterol and phospholipids.154,156 The lipid aberrations are complex and can affect most lipoprotein (LP) classes but are largely attributed to LP-X, an abnormal low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particle (composed predominantly of phospholipids and unesterified cholesterol with low protein, cholesterol ester, and triglyceride components). The LDL associated with cholestasis is heterogeneous and may contain LP-Y (a large triglyceride-rich particle) in addition to LP-X, amongst more normal-appearing particles deplete in cholesterol esters and high in triglycerides.156 Excess triglyceride in cholestasis is primarily found in these two LDL fractions rather than in association with very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDLs).156

LP-X contributes to cholestatic hypercholesterolemia by way of its cholesterol content but bears anti-atherogenic properties that may actually decrease atherosclerotic risk.157,158 Interestingly, LP-X isolated from PBC patients has been shown to reduce LDL atherogenicity by preventing LDL oxidation and preserves the integrity of bovine aortic endothelial cells in culture (despite hypercholesterolemia).159 LP-X also promotes hepatic cholesterolgenesis and has been shown to reduce the hepatic suppression of cholesterol synthesis by increasing hepatic hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity.158 Increased HMG-CoA reductase enzyme mass (by about 2-fold) has been demonstrated in cholestatic hepatic cells incubated with LP-X compared to control cells.160

Abnormalities in LP patterns vary depending on the histologic stage of disease and degree of hepatic dysfunction. Patients with early and intermediate PBC typically have mildly elevated LDL and VLDL levels with profoundly elevated high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels.154 Additionally, hepatic lipase inhibition and altered cholesterol esterification have been shown in later stages.153

Hyperlipidemia and relationship to cardiovascular health

Few prospective trials investigating cardiovascular events in PBC have been published. A prospective observational cohort study of 400 PBC patients found that the incidence of cardiovascular events (cerebrovascular and coronary) in PBC patients was similar to that of controls. Severe hypercholesterolemia (total cholesterol (TC)>300 mg/dL) was not associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, although it was associated with the presence of hypertension.154 A prospective study of 312 PBC patients observed for a median of 7.4 years reported that the incidence of death due to atherosclerosis was not statistically different from that of an age- and sex-matched US control population.161 A retrospective study examining a death registration database in the Netherlands over 14 years (from 1979–1992; including 596 deceased PBC subjects) found that 417 patients died from PBC-related complications as a primary cause of death, while 179 patients died with PBC as a secondary cause of death. Secondary causes of death in PBC were not significantly different using standardized mortality ratios and were related to the circulatory system in 61 patients (34%), of which 23 patients (13%) died of ischemic heart disease and 16 patients (9%) died of an acute myocardial infarction. In this group, older patients (age >60 years) had significantly more deaths from vascular disease (i.e., of the arteries, arterioles, and capillaries) compared to younger patients.162

Limited data exist regarding hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular risks in association with PSC. A retrospective, continuous, longitudinal study of 157 PSC patients (42% female) monitored serum lipid levels annually (for up to 6 years) and analyzed treatment effects of UDCA on lipid profiles. Liver biochemistries, including alanine aminotransferase, ALP, and total bilirubin, were significantly associated with TC levels, and only ALP was associated with LDL. Average values for TC, LDL, and triglycerides declined after 6 years by 8%, 18%, and 7%, respectively. High-dose UDCA treatment over 2 years significantly reduced TC and LDL (but not HDL) compared to placebo. PSC patients did not demonstrate an increased risk for coronary events. Coronary artery disease, reported with an incidence of 3%, was not associated with baseline lipids or changes in lipid levels at followup.163

Another study analyzed lipid profiles in two PSC patient groups. The first group (56 patients: 22 with stage I+II and 34 with stage III+IV disease; 24 females) was participating in a randomized, placebo-controlled UDCA trial. The second group (38 females) included advanced PSC patients undergoing evaluation for LT. More patients in the first group showed elevated serum TC (41%) and HDL (20%), with only 2% demonstrating elevated triglycerides. TC levels correlated directly with bilirubin and were significantly lower in early versus late stages. In the second group, TC declined in inverse correlation to bilirubin, and triglycerides increased (17%). Despite lipid abnormalities, no atherosclerosis-related morbidity or mortality was reported.108

Data from a large prospective multicenter cohort study (1970–2004) of 678 PSC patients and 6,347 non-PSC age-and sex-matched controls linked with 3,139 first-degree relatives to PSC patients and 30,953 first-degree relatives to a matched comparison cohort was analyzed over 125,127 person-years of follow-up. Cardiovascular disease was diagnosed in 203 PSC patients, corresponding to a 3.34-fold increased relative risk (RR), with the highest estimated risk for diseases of the veins and lymphatics (RR=6.95). Diseases of the arteries (RR=5.61) and pulmonary heart disease or disorders of the pulmonary circulation (RR=5.03) were also heightened. The RR was slightly elevated for cerebrovascular disease (RR=1.74) and neutral for ischemic heart disease (RR=0.90). First-degree relatives of PSC patients did not appear to be at higher risk for cardiovascular disease.164

Lipid-related therapies

As a result of dramatic, prolonged lipid derangements, cholesterol deposits can develop at bony prominences, tendon sheaths, and peripheral nerves (xanthomata) in addition to periorbital skin folds (xanthelasmata). Xanthomatous skin lesions, however, may not correlate with inappropriately advanced atherosclerosis or coronary disease.165 Large-volume plasmapheresis for management of xanthomas (particularly planar xanthomas on the hands and soles) is rarely employed but may be considered in cases causing pain or physical limitations.166

Lipid-lowering medications may be recommended for some patients based on individual risk factors but are not standard therapies in PBC or PSC. Recommended guidelines should be followed for appropriate risk stratification and management of dyslipidemia.167,168 Lifestyle modifications, including dietary and exercise counseling, should be provided. Lipid-lowering agents, such as statins and ezetimibe, appear safe when accompanied by close monitoring of liver biochemistries.4 Statins have been reported in small studies to reduce cholesterol and total bile acid levels in PBC patients.169–171 UDCA has been shown to significantly decrease TC levels at 1 and 2 years compared to placebo, without significantly influencing serum HDL and triglycerides. No severe side effects from UDCA were reported in this study.172 Of note, the dyslipidemia associated with cholestasis has been reported to improve after LT.173

Please refer to Table 2 for a summary of clinical management recommendations in PBC and PSC.

Table 2

Summary of management recommendations for two cholestatic liver disease

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC)Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)
Disease-Specific Medical Therapy

  • UDCA 13–15 mg/kg/day orally for patients with abnormal liver enzymes (even if asymptomatic)

    • Medication should be continued indefinitely throughout disease course.3,11

    • Initiate gradually over 2–3 weeks to full dose to avoid triggering pruritus.

  • US FDA Pregnancy Category B drug

  • Not US FDA-approved for use in breastfeeding

  • UDCA not recommended in adult PSC patients38

  • Corticosteroids and other immunosuppressants as indicated for PSC-overlap syndromes38

Fatigue

  • Investigate alternate causes; discontinue potentially inciting medications if possible11

  • Consider referral to psychological counseling services for management of concomitant disorders and development of coping strategies11

PruritusStepwise therapy, starting from first- to fourth-line (1–4, below). Advancement to next step for treatment failure, intolerance, or significant side effects to aforementioned option:11,16

  • Bile acid sequestrants such as cholestyramine dosed 4 g orally up to 4 times/day. Increase gradually to maximum dose of 600 mg/day.

  • Rifampicin 150–300 mg orally twice daily. Start at 150 mg daily and increase to maximum dose of 600 mg/day. Close monitoring of liver biochemistries and blood counts.

  • Opioid antagonists such as naltrexone starting at 25 mg orally/day; can be increased to 50 mg/day.

  • Sertraline starting at low doses and increasing to maximum of 100 mg/day.

    • Consider experimental treatment or referral to specialized center for resistant cases

    • LT effective but should only be considered in severe, refractory cases after failure of all alternatives

Fat-Soluble Vitamin Deficiency

  • Serologic laboratory monitoring of vitamins A, D, & E (particularly in advanced disease)

    • Yearly testing recommended if bilirubin >2.0 mg/dL3

  • Enteral vitamin A, D, & E supplementation in cases of overt cholestasis, steatorrhea and malabsorption, or when diagnosed with deficiency38

  • Parenteral vitamin K administered empirically before invasive procedures in overt cholestasis or in the setting of bleeding11

Metabolic Bone Disease

  • DEXA scan at PBC diagnosis with follow-up assessment at 1–3 year intervals based on individual risks and lifestyle factors11,16,38,115

Cholestasis with normal BMD: T-score (>−1.0)

  • Follow basic measures for MBD prevention or delayed progression:

    • Supplemental calcium + vitamin D3

    • Regular weight-bearing exercise

    • Abstinence from smoking

    • Avoidance of excess alcohol intake

    • Assessment and modification of individual risk factors

Hepatic Osteopenia: T-score (−1.0 to −2.5)

  • DEXA scan every 2 years

  • Follow basic preventive measures

  • Bisphosphonate therapy may be appropriate at T-score <−1.5 in the presence of other risk factors such as prolonged glucocorticoid use

Hepatic Osteoporosis: T-score (<−2.5) or history of fragility fracture

  • Consider other causes of low BMD+

  • Follow basic preventive measures

  • Bisphosphonate therapy

  • Consider HRT in postmenopausal females, patients with early (age <45) menopause or female hypogonadism. Consider testosterone in male patients with hypogonadism.

  • Risks and benefits of such therapies must be weighed, especially with regard to malignancy risks, and treatment individualized.

  • Refer to bone specialist for management of severe or complex cases requiring consideration of alternative therapy.

  • Interval DEXA monitoring (every 1–3 years) based on degree of cholestasis and presence of other individual risk factors.

LT Patients115,191

  • Follow basic preventive measures

  • Pre-LT: Screen with DEXA, thoracolumbar spine X-rays, free testosterone (males), 25-OH vitamin D, serum calcium

  • MBD therapy for LT candidates ideally started prior to surgery and continued post-transplant given rapid bone loss surrounding LT

  • Post-LT: Yearly DEXA for initial 5 years in osteopenic patients and every 2–3 years in patients with normal BMD

    • DEXA screening there after is determined by the presence of risk factors

Hyperlipidemia

  • UDCA may provide initial step in lowering low-density lipoprotein and total cholesterol levels in PBC

  • Further lipid-lowering medical therapy based on individual risks with close monitoring of liver biochemical profile

    • Large-volume plasmapheresis for management of xanthomas (particularly planar) is rarely employed but may be considered in cases causing pain or limitations of manual dexterity/mobility166

Other Disease-Related ConsiderationsSicca Syndrome3

  • Dry eyes

    • Artificial tears as initial management

    • Pilocarpine or cevimeline if symptoms persist

    • Cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion for refractory cases under direction of ophthalmologist

  • Xerostomia & Dysphagia

    • Saliva substitutes

    • Pilocarpine or cevimeline if symptoms persist

    • Encourage oral hygiene regimen (mouth-rinsing, use of fluoride-containing toothpaste, dental flossing) and regular dental care

    • Suggest salivary gland stimulation with sugar-free gum or hard candy; lip care with oil or petroleum-based balm/lipstick

    • Careful swallowing (especially of pills) with copious water and maintenance of upright position after swallowing

  • Vaginal dryness

    • Topical moisturizers

Inflammatory Bowel Disease38

  • IBD treatment per standard practice guidelines

  • Complete colonoscopy with biopsies at initial PSC diagnosis

  • Surveillance colonoscopy with biopsies performed yearly given high risk of colorectal cancer

  • UDCA not recommended for PSC treatment or for colorectal cancer chemoprevention

Dominant Bile Duct Strictures38

  • Should be considered in the setting of clinical changes, including increases in serum bilirubin or ALP, cholangitis, or progressive biliary dilation on imaging

  • ERCP should be performed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes

  • Treatment is individualized and options (conservative v. endoscopic v. surgical including LT) require careful consideration

Recurrent Cholangitis38

  • Empiric, long-term antibiotic regimen may be indicated

  • Refractory cholangitis is rarely an indication for LT

Follow-up Care and Medical Maintenance

  • Liver function tests every 3–6 months16

  • Yearly thyroid stimulating hormone level

  • Familial screening, particularly among first-degree female relatives

  • Liver function test monitoring

  • Malignancy screening as outlined in Table 1

Screening Recommendations in Cirrhosis:

  • Variceal Screening: Upper endoscopy for initial assessment of variceal status

    • Repeat endoscopy as determined by previous findings and standard practice guidelines194

    • Management of portal hypertensive complications based on standard practice guidelines194

  • Hepatocellular Carcinoma Screening: Abdominal ultrasound every 6 months193

    • Serum alpha-fetoprotein measurement every 6–12 months can be considered11,16,38,193

Liver Transplantation

  • Consideration in setting of end-stage liver disease with decompensation/symptomatic portal hypertension/hepatic failure16

  • Consideration in setting of end-stage liver disease with decompensation/symptomatic portal hypertension/hepatic failure; recurrent or recalcitrant cholangitis38

Abbreviations: UDCA (ursodeoxycholic acid); US FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration); LT (liver transplantation); DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry); BMD (bone mineral density); MBD (metabolic bone disease); HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy); IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

including: serum alkaline phosphatase, calcium, phosphate, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, creatinine, protein electrophoresis, testosterone (males), and complete blood count; medication assessment; thoracolumbar radiography.

Pregnancy-related issues, maternal health, and birth outcomes

Chronic cholestatic liver diseases such as PBC and PSC can pose unique clinical challenges during pregnancy. The states are relatively rare, and there is limited literature surrounding the topics. Liver disease may initially manifest during pregnancy or may be an established diagnosis prior to pregnancy. Diagnosis and management of liver disease in pregnancy may be difficult, as physiologic changes associated with a normal pregnancy can mimic signs and symptoms of chronic liver disease. Therefore, it is essential to review the relevant and expected clinical variants of pregnancy (Table 3). Additionally, it must be recognized that the state of pregnancy and its associated sex-hormone burden can influence autoimmune conditions. As the interplay between pregnancy and maternal disease can affect birth outcomes and maternal course, consideration of the following topics are critical while caring for women of childbearing age with cholestatic liver disease.

Table 3

Expected laboratory variants of pregnancy important in the assessment of maternal liver disease195

Laboratory testsProposed reason for alteration
Elevated:

  • Serum alkaline phosphatase

  • Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein

  • 5' Nucleotidase

  • Ceruloplasmin

  • Serum cholesterol and triglycerides


  • Expected (2-4-fold) increase due to placental isoenzyme production

  • Expected elevation due to placental production; can be elevated with fetal neural tube defects

  • Expected mild elevation (trimesters 2 & 3)

  • Expected elevation with pregnancy and estrogen exposure

  • Expected elevations (trimester 2 with peak at term)

Normal:

  • Aminotransferases (AST / ALT)*

  • Serum total bile acid concentration*

  • Prothrombin time


  • Expected to remain normal during pregnancy

  • Expected to remain normal during pregnancy

  • Expected to remain normal during pregnancy

Decreased:

  • Serum albumin

  • Total and unconjugated bilirubin*

  • Conjugated bilirubin*

  • Gamma-glutamyl transferase*


  • Expected decrease due to relative hemodilution (of red blood cell and hemoglobin mass) in the setting of greater plasma volume expansion (particularly in trimester 2)

  • Expected decrease (all trimesters)

  • Expected decrease (trimesters 2 & 3)

  • Expected decrease (trimesters 2 & 3)

Abnormal (elevated) values may help to identify liver diseases in pregnancy, particularly in the setting of cholestasis.

Abbreviations: AST (aspartate aminotransferase); ALT (alanine aminotransferase).

Pregnancy and cholestatic liver disease

Given the anticipated elevation of ALP during pregnancy, diagnosing PBC or PSC may be challenging. The combination of history, physical examination, and investigative data are crucial. Abundant sex hormones during pregnancy can promote cholestasis, potentiating symptoms (such as pruritus and jaundice) and leading to laboratory aberrations.174 Pregnancy-associated telangiectasias (60%), spider nevi, and palmar erythema (50%) can mimic signs of chronic liver disease.175 Hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, and jaundice are abnormal in pregnancy and warrant investigation.176 Hepatic accumulation of cholesterol and triglycerides coupled with gallbladder enlargement and cholesterol supersaturation predispose to gallstone formation and related effects.177 Elevations in serum aminotransferases, bilirubin, and total bile acid levels may provide diagnostic aid. If necessary, MRCP may be carried out in the second or third trimesters with reluctance to perform in the first. ERCP is reserved for cases requiring anticipated endoscopic intervention. Clinical vigilance is paramount, as both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality are increased in the setting of pregnancy and liver disease. Please see Table 4 describing the overlap features and clinical intricacies of pregnancy and liver disease.

Table 4

Pregnancy-related clinical manifestations with shared features of liver disease

Clinical sign/symptomPotential etiologies/differential diagnostic considerations195
Telangiectasias & Spider nevi

  • Normal due to presence of increased estrogen

Pruritus

  • Dermatologic:196,197

    • Atopic eruption of pregnancy (including eczema in pregnancy, prurigo of pregnancy, and pruritic folliculitis of pregnancy). Typically manifests early in pregnancy, <3rd trimester with trunk and limb skin involvement.

    • Polymorphic eruption of pregnancy (also known as pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy); pemphigoid gestationis. Typically manifests in 3rd trimester with predominant abdominal skin involvement. Pemphigoid gestationis may be associated with small for date infant, while the other dermatologic conditions are usually without significant maternal or fetal risks.

  • Gastrointestinal:

    • Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Generally presents as sudden onset of generalized pruritus during late 2nd or 3rd trimester. Typically without rash but may have secondary skin lesions such as linear skin excoriations and excoriated papules resulting from scratching. Associated with elevated total serum bile acid levels and fetal risks including still births, prematurity, and fetal distress.

  • Endocrine:

    • Sex-hormone abundance during pregnancy

FatigueMay have multifactorial etiology including:

  • Endocrine: Thyroid disorder, gestational diabetes

  • Hematologic: Anemia

  • Cardiovascular: Hypotension (i.e. inferior vena cava compression by gravid uterus); hypovolemia/dehydration; hypertension (i.e. preeclampsia); cardiomyopathy

  • Musculoskeletal: Physical and mechanical stress of gravid uterus. Lumbar hyperextension resulting in low back pain; joint laxity resulting from pregnancy hormones (progesterone/relaxin) and leading to pelvic pain (pubic symphysis change/diastasis); excess weight-bearing and bone alterations leading to joint pain (low back, knees, sacroiliac joints)

  • Psychiatric: Disturbed sleep, depression

  • Other: Medication-induced effects

Abdominal pain

  • Gastrointestinal: Gallstone disease, cholangitis, gastroesophageal reflux disease, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, appendicitis, diverticulitis, intra-abdominal hemorrhage

  • Obstetric/Gynecologic: Ectopic pregnancy (early), spontaneous or threatened abortion, labor (preterm or term), leiomyomas, endometriosis, ovarian cyst, pelvic inflammatory disease/salpingitis, uterine rupture

  • Genitourinary: Urinary tract infection, cystitis, pyelonephritis, nephrolithiasis

Jaundice

  • Gastrointestinal: Obstructive gallstone disease/cholangitis; drug-induced cholestasis

  • Obstetric: HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets)

  • Hematologic: Hemolysis

Pregnant patients with chronic liver diseases including PBC and PSC should be followed by a high-risk obstetrician and hepatologist for careful monitoring and frequent reassessments throughout pregnancy and delivery. Drug therapy during pregnancy should follow US Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) safety guidelines (Table 5) and should be focused on relieving intolerable symptoms (such as pruritus) that can occur or worsen with pregnancy.175 Persistent symptoms and lab abnormalities in the post-partum period warrant further investigation.

Table 5

Primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis in pregnancy: medication safety considerations

US FDA categoryDefinitionMedications
AControlled studies in pregnant women fail to demonstrate fetal risk in the first trimester, or animal reproduction studies fail to demonstrate fetal risk. Possibility of fetal harm appears remote.
BAnimal studies do not indicate fetal risk and there are no adequate well-controlled studies in pregnant women, or animal studies have demonstrated adverse effect but controlled studies in pregnant women have failed to demonstrate risk. Possibility of fetal harm appears remote, but drug should only be used in pregnancy if clearly indicated.

  • Ursodeoxycholic Acid

  • Octreotide

  • Vasopressin

CAnimal reproduction studies indicate fetal risk, and there are no adequate well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Benefit of medication may be acceptable despite potential risk. Drug should only be used in pregnancy if clearly indicated.

  • Propranolol

DEvidence of fetal risk exists based on data from human studies or from investigational/marketing data recorded in humans. Medication benefit may be acceptable despite risk. Drug should only be used in pregnancy if clearly indicated.
XDefinite fetal risk based on animal or human studies or based on human experience. Medication risk clearly outweighs any possible benefit. Drug is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Abbreviation: US FDA (United States Food and Drug Administration).

Reference: http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FDA-2006-N-0515

Cirrhosis is not a contraindication to pregnancy in well-compensated disease states without portal hypertension. However, pregnancy in women with cirrhosis is rare due to hypothalamic-pituitary abnormalities yielding perturbations in estrogen and endocrine metabolism. Although maternal and fetal outcomes are variable, prognosis is generally most favorable for patients with well-compensated liver disease. Pregnancy in the setting of cirrhosis has been associated with increased rates of spontaneous abortions, premature births, and perinatal deaths.175

Portal pressure may worsen due to a variety of factors associated with pregnancy, including increased intravascular blood volume, increased vascular resistance, and compression of the inferior vena cava by the gravid uterus. This may predispose patients to such complications as variceal hemorrhage, portosystemic encephalopathy, and hepatic failure.175 Variceal bleeding risk is particularly pronounced during the second trimester at the time of peak portal pressures and during delivery in association with straining and fetal expulsion.174 Thus, all pregnant patients with cirrhosis should undergo endoscopic assessment for esophageal varices in the second trimester. If large varices are seen, pharmacologic therapy with a non-selective beta-blocker is indicated (Table 5). Acute variceal hemorrhage is largely managed endoscopically during pregnancy. Vaginal delivery with an assisted, short second stage of labor is preferred to abdominal surgery, although caesarean section is recommended in patients with large varices to avoid delivery-associated increases in portal pressure and risk of variceal hemorrhage.

Up to ¼ of patients diagnosed with PBC are of reproductive age.178 Although several patients maintain stable liver biochemistries throughout pregnancy, most experience a post-partum disease flare independent of preconception or gestational disease activity.178,179 Pruritus is variably reported (3–49%) and may be influenced by histologic stage of the underlying liver disease.178–180 The demonstrated remission of PBC in pregnancy may be due to an autoimmune shift from predominantly cell-mediated to humoral immunity. Additionally, steroid hormone levels (including estrogen, progesterone, and corticosteroids) that elevate dramatically in pregnancy inhibit T-cell activation and nuclear-factor-kB activity. The T-helper (Th)-1/Th-2 balance is shifted toward a Th-2 response in pregnancy, and post-partum reversal of this cytokine balance may reflect the observed disease flare. Adverse fetal events do not appear to be associated with biochemical disease activity during preconception or pregnancy periods.178

Maternal disease and birth outcomes

A retrospective case study and literature review (1950–2014) identified 98 pregnancies in 72 PBC patients (64% of whom were diagnosed preconception). Live births were reported in 65%, along with 24 miscarriages and three documented stillbirths. One baby was born with a chromosomal abnormality; minor birth defects were not recorded. There were no maternal deaths, and serious disease progression was rarely reported (n=2; one patient requiring LT and one intensive care).179

A retrospective study (1987–2012) of 223 consecutive patients with PBC found that a significantly lower number of patients (n=186, 79.8%) became pregnant compared to controls (n=367). Most pregnancies (499/507) were determined prior to PBC diagnosis. No significant differences in miscarriages or preterm deliveries were seen. No congenital abnormalities were reported. The risks of perinatal death (n=3) and childbirth complications (1.2%, n=6; five cases of placenta previa and one case of fetal distress) were significantly greater in PBC cases compared to controls. (The overall prevalence of placenta previa is estimated at 5.2/1000 pregnancies, although variations may exist by world region.181) Interestingly, eight pregnancies in six women occurring after PBC diagnosis had favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.

Although stable maternal disease activity without fetal loss has been reported in PSC,182,183 maternal PSC has also been linked to increased risks of preterm birth and cesarean section delivery.184 No association has been identified between maternal PSC and risk of congenital abnormalities, stillbirths, small for gestational age infants, or neonatal deaths.184

UDCA and pregnancy outcomes

High maternal serum bile acid levels have been linked with an increased probability of adverse fetal events (such as spontaneous preterm delivery, asphyxial events, and meconium staining) in patients with severe intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) and bile acid levels ≥40 μmol/L, whereas no increased fetal risks were detected with lower levels.185 UDCA treatment appears to lower maternal serum bile acid levels, reduce passage to the fetus, and decrease bile acid levels in colostrum.186 UDCA has also been shown to prevent sex-hormone induced cholestasis and improve impaired progesterone metabolism in ICP patients.187

UDCA is generally continued throughout most of pregnancy and breastfeeding.188,189 A Cochrane Review (21 randomized controlled trials, 1197 ICP patients) found that UDCA improved pruritus over placebo in a majority of included trials.190 No significant differences in fetal distress and spontaneous preterm births were reported in UDCA-treated versus placebo groups. Less preterm deliveries were observed in UDCA-treated patients. There were no significant differences in rates of meconium passage, caesarean section deliveries, or neonatal intensive care unit admissions between treated and untreated patients.190 Limited data exist (particularly during the first trimester and breastfeeding periods), and it is unclear whether extracted data from ICP cases could be applied to PBC and PSC.38 Significant teratogenic effects linked with UDCA, however, have not been observed in humans to date.179,180,188

Conclusions

PBC and PSC are two major types of chronic cholestatic liver disease. Although there exist some shared characteristics, each disorder also bears several distinguishing features. A comprehensive overview of PBC and PSC has been provided with an emphasis on commonly encountered clinical manifestations and a focus on the female patient. Selected women's health topics including metabolic bone disease, hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular risk, and pregnancy-related matters pertaining to maternal disease and birth outcomes have been discussed. This thorough review of PBC and PSC has addressed unique clinical considerations applicable to the care of female patients with cholestatic liver disease.

Abbreviations

AIH: 

autoimmune hepatitis

AIP: 

autoimmune pancreatitis

ALP: 

alkaline phosphatase

ALT: 

alanine aminotransferase

AMAs: 

antimitochondrial antibodies

ANA: 

antinuclear antibody

ASMA: 

anti-smooth muscle antibody

AST: 

aspartate aminotransferase

BMD: 

bone mineral density

CA: 

carbohydrate antigen

CCA: 

cholangiocarcinoma

CI: 

confidence interval

DEXA: 

dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

ERCP: 

endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography

FISH: 

fluorescence in situ hybridization

GGT: 

γ-glutamyltranspeptidase

HDL: 

high-density lipoprotein

HLAs: 

human leukocyte antigens

HMG-CoA: 

hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A

HRT: 

hormone replacement therapy

IBD: 

inflammatory bowel disease

ICP: 

intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

Ig: 

immunoglobulin

LCA: 

lithocholic acid

LDL: 

low-density lipoprotein

LT: 

liver transplantation

LP: 

lipoprotein

MBD: 

metabolic bone disease

MRI: 

magnetic resonance imaging

MRCP: 

magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography

p-ANCA: 

perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies

PBC: 

primary biliary cirrhosis

PSC: 

primary sclerosing cholangitis

RR: 

relative risk

TC: 

total cholesterol

Th: 

T-helper

UC: 

ulcerative colitis

UDCA: 

ursodeoxycholic acid

US FDA: 

US Food and Drug Administration

VLDLs: 

very-low-density lipoproteins

Declarations

Conflict of interest

None

Authors’ contributions

Acquisition of information and composition of the manuscript (RMMB), revising the manuscript (HV), acquisition and description of the histologic figures (FF).

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