Sclerosing cholangitis is a disease characterized by progressive fibrotic narrowing of the intrahepatic and extrahepatic bile ducts. The cause of the disease is still unclear, and it is currently thought to be related to infections and genetics and immunity.
The clinical manifestations of sclerosing cholangitis are nonspecific, with an asymptomatic period of up to several years, followed by unexplained jaundice, which worsens intermittently and is accompanied by vague pain in the right upper abdomen. Some patients may have fatigue, weight loss, decreased appetite, or nausea and vomiting. As the disease progresses, the jaundice gradually worsens and liver failure eventually occurs.
There is no ideal treatment for this disease, and treatment options include medication and surgery. Medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid are commonly used, while surgical treatments include bile drainage, bile-intestinal anastomosis, liver transplantation, and so on. For specific treatments, please consult a medical professional.