Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

Abstract

The cause of primary biliary cirrhosis is unknown. It quite probably is a symptom complex rather than a disease entity. It begins insidiously, occurring almost exclusively in women. Pathologic findings are variable. Evaluation of treatment is difficult and prognosis is ominous. Nine cases with varying clinical and biochemical findings are presented. Steroid therapy in five cases proved generally disappointing. The author suggests further study of linoleic acid therapy, used to diminish total lipid formation.