What is a common characteristic of primary biliary cirrhosis?

A common characteristic of primary biliary cirrhosis is fatigue. This condition is an autoimmune disease that leads to the progressive destruction of the small and medium-sized bile ducts within the liver. The resulting cholestasis and subsequent liver damage can cause significant fatigue, which is often reported by patients. In chronic liver diseases like primary biliary cirrhosis, fatigue can stem from various factors including the metabolic burden of the disease, malnutrition, and sleep disturbances, all contributing to a persistent sense of exhaustion.

Other options present distinct characteristics that do not align with the typical presentation of primary biliary cirrhosis. Elevated liver enzymes are often a part of the condition; however, the presence of elevated alkaline phosphatase is more commonly associated than elevated liver enzymes alone. Jaundice is a symptom that may occur, but it is often accompanied by pruritus (itching), which is characteristic of cholestatic liver diseases, including primary biliary cirrhosis. Lastly, normal alkaline phosphatase levels are not indicative of primary biliary cirrhosis, as this condition is typically associated with elevated alkaline phosphatase due to the damage and dysfunction of the bile ducts.