Vanishing bile duct syndrome

the long version

This volume contains the contributions to the International Falk Workshop 'Vanishing Bile Duct Syndrome' held in Spoleto, Italy, May 30 - June 1, 1996. Vanishing bile duct syndrome comprises a number of chronic cholestatic diseases caused by primary immunological and functional damage to the biliary epithelium. Important advances have recently been made in the biology, physiology and treatment of vanishing bile duct syndrome. In particular, recent progress in the biology and physiology of the intrahepatic biliary epithelium has added considerably to the current understanding of the pathophysiology of this syndrome. The guiding principle behind the Workshop and these proceedings was to pursue an interdisciplinary approach to research aspects, clinical management and therapeutic strategy of vanishing bile duct syndrome. This book summarizes the experience of investigators and clinicians actively working on the various aspects of this syndrome, from basic science to clinical practice.