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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Liver testing, scared
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.
Liver testing, scared
by imnotapanda, Jun 04, 2009 06:22PM
Hi, I’ve been drinking for about 4 years, last year has been the heaviest, 6-8 drinks a night. Recently I’ve kind of come out of it and realizing I cant keep this up, I’ve cut back 60-70% and am talking with the people needed (counselors etc) about 17 months ago I was tested for a physical and had an ALT count of 53, not sure how high that is….i’ve scheduled another test for next week, im wondering what to expect and am kind of scared of getting the results. The only fall out ive seen thus far are digestive problems and itchy red palms from time to time. I;m 29, 5,9 169lbs
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Jun 05, 2009 08:55AM
, Jun 05, 2009 08:55AM
An ALT of 53 is only mildly elevated, and may be associated with the alcohol. However, in these cases, the AST is normally elevated higher than the ALT.
I agree with abstaining from alcohol, and to further evaluation, an abdominal ultrasound can be done to exclude other liver diseases.
If the tests remain negative, serial monitoring of the liver enzymes should be done to ensure they are not rising.
These options 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.
KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/kevinmd
I agree with abstaining from alcohol, and to further evaluation, an abdominal ultrasound can be done to exclude other liver diseases.
If the tests remain negative, serial monitoring of the liver enzymes should be done to ensure they are not rising.
These options 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.
KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/kevinmd
Member Comments (2)
by imnotapanda, Jun 06, 2009 02:40PM
Is it possible, or likely to have done alot of damage since i was tested 18 months ago? i'm worried im going to have horrible test results and am stressing.
