Osteoporosis
Damage to your liver, such as that caused by primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), can affect its ability to absorb vitamin D and calcium, both of which are needed to keep your bones strong and healthy. This could lead to your bones becoming weak and brittle, a condition that is known as osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis affects around one third of people with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). Compared to someone of the same age and sex, a person with PBC is more than four times more likely to develop osteoporosis than someone who does not have PBC.
A dual energy X-ray scan, usually referred to as a DEXA scan, is a type of X-ray that measures the amount of calcium in your bones. This measurement is often referred to as bone mineral density (BMD). Your BMD may be tested every two to four years to see if you are at risk of developing osteoporosis.
If you are, your GP may prescribe vitamin D and calcium supplements to help maintain your bone strength. In some cases, you may also need more specific treatment, such as bisphosphonates. This is a medicine that slows the rate at which the cells break down bone (osteoclasts). This maintains bone density and reduces the risk of fracture. See Osteoporosis - treatment for more information.
Liver cancer
If you have PBC, the progressive damage to your liver slightly increases your risk of developing liver cancer. Due to this slightly increased risk, you may be referred for regular check-ups for liver cancer.
