[The dynamics of the morphological liver changes in primary biliary cirrhosis (based on the data from repeat...

Repeat biopsy examinations (38 specimens) from 18 patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) showed association of the most active PBC with pronounced ductule proliferation, especially with ductule necrosis. The semiquantitative R. Knodell technique allows defining most characteristic histological parameters and correlations. In 3 patients the biopsies helped detect a combination of PBC with viral hepatitis resultant in cirrhosis. Repeat biopsies contribute to specification of the initial diagnosis, to evaluation of PBC activity and progression.