Treatment of Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis in Pregnant Women
Primary sclerosing cholangitis during pregnancy requires a careful, interdisciplinary approach that accounts for both maternal liver disease management and fetal safety at each trimester.
Clinical Scenario
Pregnant women with primary sclerosing cholangitis represent a distinct management population. Close monitoring and interdisciplinary specialist care is essential throughout pregnancy, with particular vigilance in those with cirrhosis or suspected portal hypertension.
Treatment Approach
Management centres on bile acid therapy with an established safety profile in the second and third trimester, alongside specific strategies for pregnancy-related complications. The complete protocol — covering all agents, their indications, and clinical decision points within each trimester — is available in the full regimen.
References
DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2022.05.011
- Close monitoring and interdisciplinary specialist care is suggested for pregnant women with PSC and cirrhosis, and especially in those with suspected portal hypertension.
- Use of UDCA during the second and third trimester of pregnancy is safe.