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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Test
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.
Test
by Liver test, Sep 18, 2005 12:00AM
My doctor says my liver function tests are normal and he
needs to do NO more test as he feels I have no liver
problems. I believe I have a liver disease that will affect
my bile ducts then cirrois my liver. As I have read on these
diseases and have some symptoms. He still says as long as
my LFT's are normal I have nothing to worry about. I know
a ercp is a good test to see the conditions of the bile
ducts. Any other test that are not as complex I can ask
for to assure myself by bile ducts are not damaged or
have a disease that affects them. Would something show up
in my blood work if I had a liver disease that effects my
bile ducts. My doctor does not want to do any test as he
seems stuck on the fact that my lft are ok, he tells me
if something was wrong it would show up on my liver function
test. Doctor seems stuck on his way and will not listen
to me when I ask for more test. I was a heavy drinker for years
and have not drank for 8 months.
needs to do NO more test as he feels I have no liver
problems. I believe I have a liver disease that will affect
my bile ducts then cirrois my liver. As I have read on these
diseases and have some symptoms. He still says as long as
my LFT's are normal I have nothing to worry about. I know
a ercp is a good test to see the conditions of the bile
ducts. Any other test that are not as complex I can ask
for to assure myself by bile ducts are not damaged or
have a disease that affects them. Would something show up
in my blood work if I had a liver disease that effects my
bile ducts. My doctor does not want to do any test as he
seems stuck on the fact that my lft are ok, he tells me
if something was wrong it would show up on my liver function
test. Doctor seems stuck on his way and will not listen
to me when I ask for more test. I was a heavy drinker for years
and have not drank for 8 months.
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Sep 19, 2005 12:00AM
, Sep 19, 2005 12:00AM
If there is a significant issue with the bile ducts, the liver function tests most likely would be elevated.
However, if you continue to be concered despite normal blood tests you can consider a liver ultrasound for further evaluation.
If the bile ducts specifically are of concern, an MRCP (less invasive than an ERCP) can be considered in conjunction with your 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.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com
However, if you continue to be concered despite normal blood tests you can consider a liver ultrasound for further evaluation.
If the bile ducts specifically are of concern, an MRCP (less invasive than an ERCP) can be considered in conjunction with your 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.
http://www.straightfromthedoc.com
