have i got ..

this is a follow up to raised ALT/indigestion/liver pain - posted jan 21 09

i have had my LFT done again and my alt has dropped to 66, so my consultant wants the liver biopsy put on hold for the time being. he wants to do an endoscopy which is booked in a couple of weeks. with my constant indigestion and stomach pains i am terrified i have stomach cancer, on top of this a general feeling of being unwell for the last 10 months is also a worrying factor. on the plus sides, im only 34, non smoker and occasional drinker. please could you give me your professional thoughts on my concerns??

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with holding off on the liver biopsy.  This is normally done when the ALT is 3x the upper limit of normal - which in most cases is around 100.  

If stomach cancer is a concern, the definitive test would be an upper endoscopy.  This can be discussed with your personal physician.

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 Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd