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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
ferritin--
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD
Boston - MA
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
ferritin--
by allmarc, May 15, 2007 12:00AM
54 yr male-5-11 181 lbs--stomach pain right side for over a year-lost about 25 pounds. --had every test done all neg-hvae had elevated liver enzymes for 20 plus years--currently being treated at Northwestern Hosp-in Il-they found high iron-ferritin over 1040ml- but my saturation is normal. Found fatty liver,dr said odd, because I do not fit the criteria. Negative for HH and all Hepatitis. Had biopsy of liver awaiting result--heptolgy thinks it will be normal.
If clean biopsy what is causing elev. ferritin? Leukemia? All other blood work is normal. Had a ct w/the dye and liquid--nothing signifigant presented.
Is it safe to leave the ferritin/iron high? What would you say is the next step?
If clean biopsy what is causing elev. ferritin? Leukemia? All other blood work is normal. Had a ct w/the dye and liquid--nothing signifigant presented.
Is it safe to leave the ferritin/iron high? What would you say is the next step?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, May 16, 2007 12:00AM
, May 16, 2007 12:00AM
I agree with the liver biopsy to definitively rule out hemochromatosis.
An increased ferritin level can be found also in various inflammatory conditions like viral hepatitis, cancer, infection, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
If the liver biopsy is non-revealing, I cannot think of further testing to evaluate this. Routine cancer screening (i.e. prostate and colon cancer) should be done. If there is suspicion of cancer, an abdominal CT scan can be considered as well.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
An increased ferritin level can be found also in various inflammatory conditions like viral hepatitis, cancer, infection, and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
If the liver biopsy is non-revealing, I cannot think of further testing to evaluate this. Routine cancer screening (i.e. prostate and colon cancer) should be done. If there is suspicion of cancer, an abdominal CT scan can be considered as well.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_
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Hope you get it sorted out.
Liz.