Re: Cirrhosis

Posted By HFHSM.D.-rf on October 27, 1998 at 10:29:14:

In Reply to: Cirrhosis posted by P.Luther on October 21, 1998 at 13:58:31:






: My mother has cirrhosis and hepitias. She is waiting to be evaluated to
: receive a transplant.She has had her spleen and gallbladder removed previously.Has
:  blood clotting problems,swelling in abdomen ,ankles and hands,and had a masectomy.
: My questions are ....What will be her stages be before and after a transplant and also if
: she does not opt to go for the transplant?
: I'm trying to decide her best plan for care..since I will most likely be her care
: taker.Any information will be helpful
_____
Dear P. luther,
Transplant programs are often reluctatnt to transplant organs to patrients who have had recent cancers.  The fear is that the immunosuppression will promote tumor recurrence,growth and spread.  Additionally, the type of hepatitis responsible for the cirrhosis is also a factor in determining suitability for transplantation.
It seems as if your mother has evidence for severe liver disease.  You should arrange early evaluation to learn whether your mother is a possible transplant candidate.
This information is presented for educational purposes.  Always consult your personal physiciamn for specific medical questions.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: cirrhosis. hepatitis
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Thank you for responding....We are waiting on word of when she can be evaluated for transplant.Her cancer was 3 years ago.Is that still a factor?
The other questions I really would like some information on is ...
What will her health be like before and after a transplant?
Also if it is not possible for a transplant what are the complications going to be?
____
Dear P. Luther,
Many programs wait 5 years after a cancer before doing liver transplantation.  The health before the transplant depends on the rate of deterioration.  Patients with end stage liver disease have malaise,w eakness, confusion ( if there is untreated encephalopathy), ascites (increased fluid in the abdomen) and may have bleeding from varices.  if all goes well after the transplant, the patient's performance is entirely normal.  it is necessary to take immunosuppressive drugs, raising the risk of infection.
This information is presented for educational purposes.  Always ask specific questions to your personal physician.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: cirrhosis, liver transplantation
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