In PBC, the small bile ducts within the liver become inflamed and obliterated. Lack of bile also decreases absorption of calcium and vitamin D, leading to an eventual thinning of the bones. Over time,cirrhosis develops and liver transplantation is considered. In PSC, the large bile ducts outside the liver become inflamed and obstructed. Obstruction of bile leads to frequent infections and jaundice and eventually causes cirrhosis and the need for liver transplantation.
Autoimmune hepatitis is found more commonly in women.
For unknown reasons, the body unleashes its immune system against its own liver. Treatment involves medications such as corticosteroids to suppress the immune system. Others are born without certain vital enzymes, leading to the accumulation of sugars which may also cause cirrhosis of the liver. On rare occasions, the absence of certain specific enzymes can lead to liver as well as lung injury, as in alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency. Most patients with cirrhosis have few symptoms.