Re: Elevated Liver Enzymes

Posted By HFHSM.D.-jg on September 15, 1998 at 07:11:38:

In Reply to: Elevated Liver Enzymes posted by Kevin on September 10, 1998 at 15:10:15:






I have had colitis for 2 years now. I am currently 21 years old. Along with the colitis I have experienced high liver emzymes from time to time. I recently had a liver biopsy. My liver showed no signs of inflamation (inflammation), or disease. I do drink about once a week. On average I consume 6 drinks. My gastro doctor tells me that there is an outside chance that I have PSC (primary scharlering coliangitis) because my alk phos are usually elevated. Lately my levels have only been slightly high. Would the enzyme levels fluctuate with PSC or would they remain high?
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Dear Kevin:
About 4% patients with ulcerative colitis will develop primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC).   Currently, there is no way to predict or identify who will develop PSC.  Liver alkaline phosphatase, synthesized by the bile duct lining cells, are increased when there is obstruction of the bile ducts.  PSC patients may have fluctuation of levels depending upon disease activity.  To confirm the diagnosis of PSC, a necessary step before committing you to therapy with Actigall, you will require an ERCP.  This test is a special upper endoscopic procedure involving cannulation of bile ducts and x-ray visualization of the bile ducts by injecting contrast medium. Confirmation of narrowing of the ducts will support the diagnosis of PSC.  
This information is provided for educational purposes only.  Always consult your personal physician for specific medical questions.
HFHSM.D.-jg
*keywords: primary sclerosing cholangitis, PSC
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