What is PBC?

May, 2025

Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic cholestatic liver disease and part of the broader spectrum of autoimmune liver conditions. In this educational overview, we explain how autoimmune diseases can target different parts of the liver: hepatocytes in autoimmune hepatitis, small bile ducts in PBC, and large bile ducts in PSC (Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis).

You'll also learn why the name changed from Primary Biliary Cirrhosis to Primary Biliary Cholangitis—a shift that reflects earlier diagnosis before cirrhosis develops, and aims to improve accuracy and patient understanding. We break down the rationale behind the terminology, highlight the concept of overlap syndromes, and emphasize the importance of early recognition and management of PBC as an autoimmune cholangiopathy.

This video is ideal for providers, patients, and caregivers seeking a deeper understanding of PBC and how it fits within the autoimmune liver disease landscape.