A middle-aged woman has fatigue, itching and a raised alkaline phosphatase. Antimitochondrial antibodies are positive. Which drug is used to slow the disease?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Ursodeoxycholic acid
- Step 1: Itching, raised ALP and antimitochondrial antibodies in a middle-aged woman indicate primary biliary cholangitis. Step 2. Ursodeoxycholic acid improves liver biochemistry and delays progression, with transplant for end-stage disease. Answer: Ursodeoxycholic acid. Why not the others: Steroids are not first-line in PBC. Interferon and ribavirin treat hepatitis C. Penicillamine is used in Wilson disease.
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