liver question

lft are normal and cat scan is normal. belive i have
cirrhosis from drinking alot over 10-15 years. whats the
odds both of these would be normal if my liver had severe
damage like cirrhosis. Because my damage is from drinking
is it possible both these would come back normal with
a severe problem like cirrhosis. I have all the symptoms
of cirrhosis, but my dr. will not listen to me. I know
a biopsy is the only way to tell.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If both the LFTs and CT scan are normal it is unlikely cirrhosis is present.  I do not know exact percentages.

There are some investigational studies suggesting that an MRI can be a more comprehensive study to determine if there is cirrhosis or not - with a sensitivity of 92 percent to determine grade A (mild) cirrhosis.

This option can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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, M.D.
kevinmd_b

[cocci1964]

A related discussion, Fear of liver damage was started.