Primary biliary cirrhosis in a 37 year old Nigerian male: a case report

Abstract

The typical patient with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a middle aged woman presenting with fatigue, pruritus, and markedly elevated serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels. PBC has a higher incidence and prevalence among Caucasians and Hispanics. We reported this case to reinforce the fact that the “rarities” in our environment may not be so uncommon after all. This article reports a case of PBC in a Nigerian man who presented with pruritus, hyperpigmentation and jaundice. The patient met all 3 diagnostic criteria and responded remarkably to Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) tablets.

Primary biliary cirrhosis would be an unusual diagnosis to consider in a young male of African descent. Data on PBC among Africans has remained scanty. A high index of suspicion is key in any patient presenting with jaundice, pruritus and cholestasis.

Keywords: Primary biliary cirrhosis, Male