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Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

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Causes of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis

The causes of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) are not known. Genes, immune system problems, bacteria, and viruses may play roles in the development of the disease.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis is linked to * inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). About three out of four people with Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis have a type of inflammatory bowel disease called ulcerative colitis. The link between Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and inflammatory bowel disease is not yet understood.

Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order

* Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Pronounced - in-FLAM-uh-toh-ree BAH-wul duh-zeez
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is long lasting problems that cause irritation and ulcers in the Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract. The most common disorders are * ulcerative colitis and * Crohn's disease.

* Crohn's Disease
Pronounced - krohnz duh-zeez
Crohn's Disease is a chronic (lasting a long time) form of inflammatory bowel disease. Crohn's disease causes severe irritation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It usually affects the lower * small intestine (called the ileum) or the colon, but it can affect the entire gastrointestinal tract. Also called regional enteritis and ileitis. More about Crohn's Disease.

* Small Intestine
The small intestine is the organ where most digestion occurs. It measures about 22 feet and includes the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. More about Small Intestine.

* Ulcerative Colitis
Pronounced - UL-sur-ay-tuv koh-LY-tis
Ulcerative colitis is a serious disease that causes ulcers and irritation in the inner lining of the colon and rectum.

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References:
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC)
June 2008
digestive.niddk.nih.gov

The information discussed above is a general overview and does not include all the facts, or include everything there is to know about any medicine and/or products mentioned. Do not use any medicine and/or products without first talking to your doctor. Possible side effects of medications, other than those listed, may occur. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions.