auto-immune colangitis(cholangitis)

I live in Italy and I am a 48 year old woman with Raynaud

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The combination of prednisone and azathioprine are standard and recommended treatments for autoimmune cholangitis.

Side effects of chronic prednisone use would include an increased risk of infection as well as osteoporosis amongst other things.  As for azathioprine, this is also an immune suppressant and can cause some liver dysfunction as well.  As long as you are being monitored by your gastroenterologist, the side effects should be manageable.  

Both PBC and autoimmune hepatitis have autoimmune commonalities, and can sometimes overlap.  Studies have shown that 7 percent of those with PBC also have autoimmune hepatitis.  

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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