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Patient Quality of Life

KOL Interview

In this expert-led video, Dr. Jeff Khan, hepatologist at the University of Southern California, explores the often-overlooked topic of symptom control and quality of life in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). Although PBC is a chronic liver disease, symptoms like fatigue and pruritus (itching) can appear early and significantly impact patients’ daily functioning, mental health, and sleep—often independent of liver disease severity. Dr. Khan offers practical strategies for managing these symptoms, including first-line and second-line treatments for itching, approaches to improving sleep hygiene, and the importance of addressing vitamin deficiencies (A, D, and K) to reduce the risk of osteoporosis. He also highlights the role of advanced practice providers (APPs) in building trust with patients and navigating sensitive topics. The video closes with a discussion on when to consider liver transplantation and how long-term outcomes for patients with PBC are often favorable.