Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a disease of the liver in which the bile ducts become inflamed, narrow, and prevent bile from flowing properly. As the bile ducts become inflamed and narrow, bile begins to back up in the liver, causing liver cells to become inflamed. Over time, this leads to decreased blood flow within the liver, increasing the pressure in the portal vein. This eventually causes a condition known as portal hypertension.
In the early stages, PSC does not cause symptoms. As it develops, the signs and symptoms of primary sclerosing cholangitis can include
- pain in the upper right part of the abdomen,
- fever,
- chills,
- night sweats,
- an enlarged liver,
- enlarged spleen,
- weight loss, and
- yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice).
Cause of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC)
Doctors do not understand the exact cause of PSC.
Other primary sclerosing cholangitis symptoms and signs
- Chills
- Enlarged Liver
- Enlarged Spleen
- Fever
- Jaundice (Yellowing of the Eyes and Skin)
- Night Sweats
- Pain in the Upper Right Part of the Abdomen
- Weight Loss
Main Article on Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis Symptoms and Signs
SLIDESHOW
Hepatitis C, Hep B, Hep A: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment See SlideshowPictures, Images, Illustrations & Quizzes
-
Liver Disease Quiz: Fatty Liver Disease, Cirrhosis & Symptoms
What is liver disease? Take the Liver Disease Quiz and test your knowledge about this organ and its function.
-
Liver Health: 14 Best and Worst Foods for Your Liver
Get some simple diet tips to keep your liver healthy, including the best veggies to keep disease away and some snacks you'll want...
-
Liver Quiz
Do you know the symptoms of liver disease? What is hepatitis? Take this quiz to learn about your liver and how to keep it healthy.
-
Picture of Liver
Front View of the Liver. The liver is a large, meaty organ that sits on the right side of the belly. See a picture of the Liver...
From 
Healthy Resources
Featured Centers
Health Solutions From Our Sponsors
Subscribe to MedicineNet's General Health Newsletter
By clicking Submit, I agree to the MedicineNet's Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of MedicineNet's subscriptions at any time.