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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
A few questions while awaiting test results
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
A few questions while awaiting test results
by puccinitenor, Mar 19, 2006 12:00AM
Hi Dr,
Just a few things I wanted to ask you while I am waiting for my Hepatitis Panel test results:
1. How reliable was a negative test for Hepatitis B 7 weeks (50 days) after the onset of my symptoms??
2. I have had abdominal pain (burning sensation) in the liver area (upper right) for about 48 hours. Its about a 3 or 4 in pain on a scale of 1 to 10. Can wait to see my doctor on Tuesday or should I seek immediate attention?
Just a few things I wanted to ask you while I am waiting for my Hepatitis Panel test results:
1. How reliable was a negative test for Hepatitis B 7 weeks (50 days) after the onset of my symptoms??
2. I have had abdominal pain (burning sensation) in the liver area (upper right) for about 48 hours. Its about a 3 or 4 in pain on a scale of 1 to 10. Can wait to see my doctor on Tuesday or should I seek immediate attention?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Mar 20, 2006 12:00AM
, Mar 20, 2006 12:00AM
To answer your questions:
1) 7 weeks can have some effects on the Hep B antibodies. However, you may want to repeat the antibody tests at least 3 months after exposure.
2) I cannot make any specific recommendations without evaluation. Over the internet, I will always make the recommendation to see a physician if the symptoms are concerning. Workup can start with an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan as well as testing the liver function with blood tests.
These options 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
1) 7 weeks can have some effects on the Hep B antibodies. However, you may want to repeat the antibody tests at least 3 months after exposure.
2) I cannot make any specific recommendations without evaluation. Over the internet, I will always make the recommendation to see a physician if the symptoms are concerning. Workup can start with an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan as well as testing the liver function with blood tests.
These options 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
