Question 1

What is Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks and destroys the small bile ducts in the liver. It is caused by autoimmune antibodies, particularly anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA), that target bile duct cells and cause progressive liver damage. The Smooth Muscle Antibody with Reflex to Titer is the most important test for distinguishing PBC from other autoimmune liver conditions.

Question 2

What causes Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis is caused by an autoimmune reaction where your immune system mistakenly attacks the small bile ducts in your liver. Anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA), found in about 95% of PBC patients, target proteins in the mitochondria of bile duct cells, leading to chronic inflammation and progressive destruction. Over time, this damage causes bile to build up in the liver, leading to scarring and cirrhosis.

Question 3

What is the best test for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

The Smooth Muscle Antibody with Reflex to Titer is the most important test for distinguishing Primary Biliary Cirrhosis from other autoimmune liver diseases because it helps rule out conditions like autoimmune hepatitis. In PBC, smooth muscle antibodies are typically absent or found at low levels, which supports the diagnosis when combined with other findings. The Cytosolic 5'-Nucleotidase 1A (cN-1A) Antibody test provides additional diagnostic evidence by detecting specialized antibodies that contribute to bile duct damage in PBC patients. Together, these antibody tests help confirm the autoimmune nature of the liver damage and distinguish PBC from other liver conditions.

Question 4

When should I get tested for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience persistent fatigue that interferes with daily activities, itchy skin without a rash, yellowing of the skin or eyes, or dark urine. Testing is also important if you have unexplained elevated liver enzymes on routine blood work, a family history of autoimmune diseases, or other autoimmune conditions like thyroid disease or Sjogren syndrome. Early detection allows for treatment that can slow disease progression and prevent complications.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

The most common early symptoms of Primary Biliary Cirrhosis are extreme fatigue and itchy skin that can be worse at night. As the disease progresses, you might notice yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), dry eyes and mouth, pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, darkening of the skin, and small yellow deposits on the eyelids. Many people have no symptoms in the early stages and are diagnosed after abnormal liver tests during routine checkups.

Question 6

Who is at risk for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis primarily affects women, with about 90% of cases occurring in females, typically diagnosed between ages 40 and 60. Your risk is higher if you have a family history of PBC or other autoimmune diseases like thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma, or Sjogren syndrome. Smoking and a history of urinary tract infections may also increase your risk, though the exact triggers for developing this autoimmune condition remain unclear.

Question 7

What happens if Primary Biliary Cirrhosis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated Primary Biliary Cirrhosis leads to progressive liver damage, eventually causing cirrhosis where scar tissue replaces healthy liver tissue. This can result in serious complications including portal hypertension, fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), enlarged veins that can rupture and bleed (varices), liver failure, and increased risk of liver cancer. Early treatment with medications like ursodeoxycholic acid can significantly slow disease progression and help you maintain good quality of life for many years.

Question 8

Can Primary Biliary Cirrhosis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Yes, blood tests are essential for diagnosing Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and are often the first step in detection. Anti-mitochondrial antibody (AMA) testing is positive in about 95% of PBC patients and is highly specific for the condition. Additional blood tests like the Smooth Muscle Antibody test and cN-1A Antibody test help distinguish PBC from other liver diseases, while liver function tests show elevated alkaline phosphatase and other enzymes. In most cases, a positive AMA test combined with elevated liver enzymes is enough to diagnose PBC, though sometimes a liver biopsy is performed to confirm the diagnosis.

Question 9

How is Primary Biliary Cirrhosis treated?

Accepted Answer

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis is treated primarily with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), a medication that improves bile flow and can slow disease progression. Most patients respond well to UDCA, which can delay or prevent the need for liver transplantation. For those who do not respond adequately to UDCA, obeticholic acid may be added as a second-line treatment. Additional treatments focus on managing symptoms like itching with antihistamines or bile acid sequestrants, treating fatigue, and monitoring for complications through regular blood tests and imaging.

Question 10

How can I prevent Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis cannot be prevented because it is an autoimmune disease with unclear triggers, but you can reduce your risk of complications by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Avoid smoking, which may worsen the disease, limit alcohol consumption to prevent additional liver damage, and maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise. If you have other autoimmune conditions or a family history of PBC, regular checkups and liver function monitoring can help detect the disease early when treatment is most effective.

Question 11

What can I do at home for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

Accepted Answer

At home, you can support your liver health by eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting salt to reduce fluid retention. Take prescribed medications consistently, especially UDCA, and use moisturizing lotions or cool baths to relieve itchy skin. Avoid alcohol completely and check with your doctor before taking any new medications or supplements, as some can stress the liver. Get adequate rest to manage fatigue, stay physically active as tolerated, and join support groups to connect with others managing PBC for emotional support and practical tips.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Primary Biliary Cirrhosis Blood Test

What is Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

What causes Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

What is the best test for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

When should I get tested for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis?

References

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