Is there a link between fatty liver and beer consumption to primary biliary cholangitis?

Question

Hello doctor,

My uncle has been diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis, a condition related to the liver. The doctor prescribed Ocaliva 5mg for a three-month course. Could you provide more information about the disease, its treatment effectiveness, and potential side effects? My uncle also has a history of fatty liver and used to consume beer regularly. Is there any connection between these factors and his current condition? Please clarify.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern.

Regarding your father's diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis, it is a chronic disease affecting the small intrahepatic bile ducts, characterized by progressive damage and eventual loss of these ducts amid chronic portal tract inflammation. Fibrosis develops due to the original insult and the secondary effects of retained toxic bile acids, leading to cirrhosis. The almost universal presence of autoantibodies, particularly anti-mitochondrial antibodies, supports the belief that PBC (primary biliary cholangitis) is an autoimmune disease. The prescription of Obeticholic acid 5 mg is effective for treating PBC. The potential side effects, while generally not severe, may include itching, abdominal discomfort, or joint pains if taken for more than three months.

Given your father's history of fatty liver and past alcohol consumption, there is a strong connection between alcohol intake and the development of the fatty liver. This correlation has been substantiated by case-control studies conducted by the American Gastroenterology Society. I strongly recommend that he cease alcohol consumption to improve the effectiveness of the medication for his liver and biliary system.

Hope this information helps you.

Thank you.