AST and ALT levels

[jroth007]

I just "Excel plotted" my AST and ALT (and colesterol for the hell of it).

From 2000 to 2006, AST has gone from 54 to 64 (+10) with one reading in 2003 at 37 (in normal range)
My ALT has gone from 89 to 106 (+17) with a low reading of 77 in 2003. Don't ask me what I did right in 2003 to have normal readings, I don't know.

My question is, are these the readings most Hep-C people see over 6 years? Do they rise and fall like that, even with normal readings now and then? I know the Biopsey is the true test, but is knowing the AST/ALT worth anything?

BTW, colesterol went from 138 to 174, but considering my age (53) and what I eat (junk), it's good.

Thanks to all. I am really enjoying this forum and really appreciate all of the responses.

John

[2hep2it]

Unfortunately, the guys are right. The only way to assess liver damage is to have a bx (Biopsy). My Alt is usually 2 - 3 times the normal level..and yes it does fluctuate. Mine have been high for the last 10 years. I suggest you talk to your doctor about it. Good luck.

[OnAPrettyPoison]

PS - your ALT and AST being elevated is an indicator of ongoing liver damage, but not how much.  Go get a biopsy - mine didn't even hurt a little.  It was just kind of boring laying on my side for four hours afterward.

[OnAPrettyPoison]

Your ALT and AST can vary, even based on what you eat.  Mine never got 10 points above range.  Even while treating it has gone up and down a few points with monthly CBCs.  Liver biopsy is the gold standard to determine damage.  You should have one initially and then follow your doctor's recommendation on follow up if you are not treating.

By the way, I am treating with only a level 1 inflamation and level 0 fibrosis.  I have not really had a hard time treating, maybe because I have no real damage.  But I will never be younger than I am right now, and I would rather treat without additional health concerns.  Treatment is such a personal decision,you have to decide what is right for you.  Good luck!