Sclerosing cholangitis

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Bile pathway

Digestive system

Sclerosing cholangitis is an inflammation of the bile ducts of the liver without a specified cause.

Primary sclerosing cholangitis

The bile ducts within and outside the liver become narrowed and scarred. The cause is unknown. The disease is associated with inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), and genetic factors may may also be responsible. The disease is progressive and most patients develop biliary cirrhosis, persistent jaundice, and liver failure. The diagnosis is made, in part, by eliminating other diseases of the biliary system -- for example, by absence of stones in the gallbladder or biliary system. The disease occurs more often in men. This disorder is rare in children.

Review Date: 05/04/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.