Concerns about liver, Should we have?

[stephen_kid]

Hi all, first I want to say thanks to all the helpful and friendly people who have been giving me good advice, and helping me keep my head on tight.  Thanks a million.  Here is my question, are other people out there with EBV or MONO concerned about liver damage? I know EBV is not hepatits, but, I know that the virus is able to attack the spleen, and the liver, I think.  I'm concerned about this, because of course, the fatigue, and malaise.  But I have been noticing that my skin bruises more easily...I have spots, and what seems like small bruises, on the soles of my feet.  It is hard to explain clearly, but I have noticed something similar to liver spots on my hands and feet....something looking like dotted freckles.  

About a month or two ago, my doctor tested my liver by doing a blood test, I didn't get the results back personally, but they said it was alright.  My doctor said I did not need to test for hepatitis, but is EBV harmful like Hepatitis, or no? I'm trying to be proactive, although I am not working, and funds are scarce....But still, the bruising easily...mainly noticeable on hands, but even a bug bite tends to heal, and leave a semi-bruised/ stained mark there on the skin.  Any words of advice....or any similar symptoms occuring with anyone else....would be most welcomed.  Thanks...bye.

[PlateletGal]

Mono can lead to a form of hepatitis.

[pt174]

I was just told I tested postive for EBV and they ONLY tested for that because a blood test came back with high liver enzyme numbers (which meant I had hepatitis)- so yes the two can go together.  From what I've read, in some cases, the liver can be affected by EBV.  Hep is any form of liver issue so if your liver is affected, it is hepititis.  I go back Thursday for more blood work as they plan to monitor my liver enzymes until the numbers are normal again.  If the doctor said that your liver enzymes were fine, then I wouldn't worry about it.  But of course, you can ask for a blood test if you want.  I've got to tell you though my numbers were through the roof so I would assume that if your liver was going to be affected, it would have shown in that first test. (I'm not a doctor thought)

Of course, when they said I tested positive for EBV I just assumed that meant mono, but from what I've read that might not be the case.  Guess I will have to talk to the doctor in detail to find out exactly what the positive EBV test means.

[ginak]

Hello Stephen,

I am not really sure of any connection of EBV and hepatitis. The most assuring thing that you have right now is that you had your liver enzymes checked and they were ok. That is very reassuring in terms of your liver function. I too bruise very easily with EBV. The only advice I can give is to get plenty of rest and to continue to push your doctors to help you. I have discovered that they know very little about this horrible disease. Most won't even acknowledge the disease.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful.

Take care,

Ginak