Liver Biopsy

[Sandy310]

My liver enzymes were abnormally high so I did the 24 hr. urine test, lots of blood work, and my primary care doctor referred me to a liver specialist who is doing a biopsy July 2 (he is going to be away until then and said he wanted to do it himself). I'm very concerned. He said don't worry about cancer, but I don't know how he would know that until he gets in there. He hardly examined me except to feel of my belly and I did have a tender spot. I'd rather know the truth and be as prepared as I can be. I've been through a lot already so it isn't like I can't take bad news and then fight it.
Please give me your opinion.  Thank you. Sandy

[jdwithhcv]

Have you ever had any risk of exposure to Hepatitis B or C.  Hepatitis B is seually transmitted.  You can get Hep C from sharing needles (IV drug use), transfusions and blood products (prior to 1993), tatoos, body piercing, sharing manicure/pedicure tools, vaccinations, dental work, and by other means.  Many people have no idea how they contracted this blood-borne virus and most have been infected for years (usually decades) before they are diagnosed.  Either of these conditions would cause liver enzymes to rise to abnormal levels.  Liver enzymes are secreted when liver cells die so elevated levels mean you have ongoing liver damage.

Liver cancer is relatively rare, though people infected with Hep C are at increased risk.  A liver biopsy is a simple, painless procedure and will give you the answers you need.  Meanwhile, MedHelp has a very active hepatitis c forum.  Do some reading there for more info about the virus.

Good luck and please let us know the outcome of your biopsy.
jd

[jdwithhcv]

Correction, Hep B is sexually transmitted.  My "x" key is sticking.
jd

[amm777]

It could be a fatty liver..hope everything works out ggod luck

[Sandy310]

Thank you for the words of encourgement!  I surely need them!  I'm very anxious.