T he rate of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) recurrence is uncertain and the different rates described in the literature reflect in part the diagnostic difficulties and in part the use of protocol biopsies, because histologic evidence of PBC recurrence is not always associated with the development of cholestatic liver tests.Recurrence of PBC appears to have little impact on long-term graft function and survival, but, with lengthening follow-up, this may become a greater problem. Whether ursodeoxycholic acid has any effect on the natural history of recurrent PBC has not been assessed.Recurrence of PBC may give some insight to the pathogenesis: The more rapid progression in the allograft compared with in the native liver, the early appearance in the graft of the aberrant distribution of E2 (the main target of the antimitochondrial antigen) and the increased rate of recurrence in those with tacrolimus as the main immunosuppressive agent is compatible with an infective trigger but clearly does not exclude other causes.Although there was some initial controversy, most centers now have reported recurrence of PBC: Recurrence is of importance not only for the patient and the clinician, but also gives potential insight into the etiology of the disease. The etiology of PBC remains uncertain, and the documentation of recurrence and understanding of risk factors may give useful tips concerning the pathophysiology of the condition and so lead to effective treatments.