I Relapsed

[friole]

I relapsed.  Picked up the PCR results today.
                     vl - 680,000 IU/mL   (1,700,000 copies)

I guess I knew this was coming, with those elevated liver enzymes, but I still can't get my brain wrapped around it.

My history --  I will be 59 in a couple of weeks.

Probably had hep C since late sixties or early seventies.  I have never had any symptoms except that I was getting more tired than I thought I should, and if I had more than 2 drinks in an evening, I felt it - recovery time was not as good, I guess you could say.  My liever enzymes have always been in the 202 (until these last 2 post tx tests)

Genotype 1a
Pre treatment VL - 1,520,000 IU/mL
Biopsy - Grade 1, Stage 1
Week 4 VL - about 2,800 IU/mL
Week 12 VL - 40 IU/mL  (LabCorp QuantaSure <2IU)
Week 20 VL - UND - (Quest Heptimax <5IU)
All tests after this were clear.

I went 56 weeks so I would have 36 clear weeks after my first sensitive PCR.  It wasn't enough, folks.  I am kicking myself for not doing the 72.  There are studies showing that those with low VL at 12 and clear at 24 can benefit from 72 weeks.  Other than Drusano, there are no studies about 36 weeks post clear.  Oh Cuteus, you were so right.

I am still too stunned to make any decisions today, but I guess I will be sticking around for awhile
Kathy

[sfbaygirl]

I am so sorry to hear this!!! I can only imagine how bad you must feel. We all know what the chances are going in, but it doesn't make it any easier to know you weren't one of the 50%. My thoughts are with you!

[Oreos]

I'm so sorry to hear you've relapsed.  You are definitely smart to take some time and consider what's next.  Don't beat yourself up for "only" doing 56 weeks.  It takes someone very strong to do that.  

Take good care.

Gail

[Lady E]

I'm so sorry to hear about your disappointment. Please don't look back..take the time you need to regroup, and move forward with hope. I haven't been though what you've been through, but know that my prayers are with you.
((Hugs))
-E

[Califia]

It is hard finding the words for a situation like this.  I had really hoped you would make it, and that goes for all of us here who have carried the burden of this terrible disease and then placed our trust in a treatment which demands so much and frequently returns so little.  But there is still something a little hopeful your situation, as others have already pointed out.  Histologically speaking, you have time on your side, especially if the interferon you've taken has improved the mild fibrosis you started out with.  It could well have happened, you know.  And maybe after conferring with a trustworthy doctor or two you might choose to wait a bit longer for a shorter, more effective treatment to come down the pike.  I'm sorry you're still in the game, but you'll win the next round.  There's just no doubt about that.

[cajunlady]

I am lost for words.  SO SO SORRY, to hear that news.  After all we go through in tx, I am very worried about ending my treatment. I have 2 shots left and my biggest fear is a relapse.
I agree with others, take some very needed time off from this and regroup. Find yourself again and enjoy for awhile.  
I can't wait until someone conquers a treatment that will work for all, and on the first time out.  Shorter tx and less sides.

Don't beat yourself up, you did all you could.  If you want to let some steam go, write letter to Congress, hundreds of them.  If we all did this, maybe someone will finally get it.

Cajun

[cuteus]

I DID NOT WANT TO BE RIGHT!!!! not on this!  my eyes are welling in disbelief and anger!
I know I bugged you to continue, but even if you did the 72 there were no guarantees, just a better shot.
Kathy, I know I pester everyone to forget about the freaking Drusano model, especially my dear friends, and I will continue doing so.  You came so close...now, I am all for the new drugs to come around the corner, if that is what it will take.  
You gave tx a well thought, reasoned shot, took the risks and played your best cards. You know that your strain responds to tx, that is one of the lessons learned.  

I don't want to be right! I want the 56 wks to be enough! maybe if I close my eyes, this thread will not be here...