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Endoscopic Findings for Patients with Primary Biliary Cholangitis: A Single-Center Experience

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background/Objectives: It is recommended that patients with cirrhosis receive endoscopic screening for esophageal varices because of portal hypertension. However, patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) do not routinely undergo endoscopic examinations. Nevertheless, although bile acids may increase the incidence rate of colon polyps by inducing colonic epithelium cell damage, only a few studies have discussed colonic findings in PBC patients, which are believed to be related to cholestasis. The issues regarding PBC patients’ endoscopic characteristics are still unclear. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at the Tri-Service General Hospital, Taiwan, and comprised data from patients aged >20 years diagnosed with primary biliary cholangitis between January 2000 and December 2018 after approval from the institutional review board. In these PBC patients, endoscopic findings were recorded, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy. Conclusions: In the PBC group, only 28 patients received EGD examinations. Among the 28 PBC patients who underwent EGD, 13 (46.4%) had EV, and there were no varices in the control group (p < 0.05). Patients with PBC also presented a higher incidence rate of colon polyps (50% vs. 14%; p < 0.001). The findings regarding the higher risks of esophageal varices and colon polyps support the rationale for endoscopic examination in PBC patients.

Source: Gastroenterology Insights

DOI: 10.3390/gastroent17010004

Authors: Hsuan-Wei Chen, Pei-Tzu Chen, Yao-Jen Liang

Institutions: Fu Jen Catholic University, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Hualien Armed Forces General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Liver Diseases and Immunity

Subfield: Hepatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930