Liver transplantation for primary biliary cirrhosis.

Liver transplantation is an effective treatment for PBC. The Pittsburgh experience is reported, with 1- and 5-year survival of 75.62% and 70.71%, respectively. Recurrence of PBC, when it occurs, has not been of clinical significance. Transplantation markedly improves chances for survival, an advantage that is demonstrable in all of the risk groups. Rehabilitation is achieved after transplantation in approximately 90% of the patients. Some clinical variables are associated with a poorer outcome and indicate the need for earlier treatment.