In a medical context, PSC most commonly stands for Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis.
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) Explained
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic, progressive disease of the liver and bile ducts. It's characterized by inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts inside and outside the liver. These bile ducts eventually narrow or become blocked.
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Pathophysiology: The narrowing and blockage of bile ducts lead to a buildup of bile in the liver, causing further liver damage, cirrhosis, and liver failure.
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Symptoms: Symptoms can vary but may include fatigue, itching, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and abdominal pain.
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Diagnosis: Diagnosis often involves liver function tests, imaging studies like MRI or MRCP (magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography), and sometimes a liver biopsy.
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Association with IBD: PSC is frequently associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), particularly ulcerative colitis.
Other Possible Meanings (Less Common)
While Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis is the most common meaning of PSC in medical contexts, it's worth noting that other less frequent abbreviations exist. The context usually clarifies the intended meaning. Some possibilities include:
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Posterior Subcapsular Cataract: A specific type of cataract that forms on the back surface of the lens in the eye.
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Patient Safety Committee: A hospital or healthcare organization committee focused on improving patient safety and reducing medical errors.
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Psychiatric Services Center: Refers to mental healthcare facilities.
