Can PBC show regression?

[sarahalawson]

[Sunny_snowflake]

Hi! It seems that PBC may slow down, but I have not heard about regression. I just keep my fingers crossed that this kind of thing could be also possible, along with hope that there will be a good new innovation in drug industry with pbc.

[Hidden]

Hello sarahlawson.

I'd not say regression myself, more PBC can become in a sort of dormant state but if so there is no way of really knowing if and when it would start up again. I expect for PBC to become to a dormant state then you'd have to have continual normal LFTs and GGT for some time. I imagine then it would be known due to the blood repeats if it was on the progressive side once more.

I developed the itch back in 2010, this sympton in particular along with abnormal LFTs and GGT led to PBC diagnosis. I think for me if my LFTs and GGT did return to normal in the future (they come down and then they climb slightly at intervals but nothing dramatic) I'd still be left with the itch I reckon. I put that down to the fact that my system struggles with the used bile and if there was a cure tomorrow to eradicate the system of the AMAs that are produced to keep PBC chugging then the damage that has been started won't go away so I would expect this sympton of itch to remain, but hey you never know, PBC is one odd thing to have as we all know.

[WendyMarie]

I was told by my liver specialists, that if your ALP stays below 180, then you are in a sort of remission. You still have PBC, but it is progressing so slowly, that it would take 30-40 years before you would ever possibly face a transplant. Only 5% of PBC patients reach transplant stage. That is why it is more likely most will die WITH the disease, rather than FROM it.

[Philippastcarin]

Diagnosed pbc about 5 years ago. My liver has advanced levels of sclerosis, I would be reluctant to take the medication for the itching as it tastes awful, taking it until it was gone then stop taking the meditation but always taking the small bucket full of everything else all at one go. (cant get organised enough to do it properly). About 10 months ago the severe itching stopped and most other symptoms reduced to very tolerable levels. just every now and then a reminder. For a while I wondered if it had gone or maybe its not pbc but my specialist is certain and it will always be there. Maybe I'm very lucky and its progressing very slowly now I'm taking the medication. positive attitude seems to be the best treatment for me. Good luck.

[windyridge]

My specialist said PBC can sometimes fizzle out. Anybody else been told this?