hcv and normal enzymes

My friend acheived SVR and maintained it for several years as far as we know.  When I ask him to ask to be tested when he goes for reular annual blood work they do a liver profile and if his enzymes are not elevated they see no need for concern.  However I have hep c and my enyzes are normal, although my vl is high.  Any one think he should be asking for a more specific test?

[debnevada]

YUH!

[sallyo]

Perhaps I should have been more direct with my question.  I was hoping for some information on why liver enzymes might be normal in a person with a diagnosis of hep C.  Also wondering if anyone would know why doctors do not wish to test further if the enysmes are within normal limits.  Maybe it doesn't matter as it may indicate no damage.  A cynical response like "YUH" only serves to discourage people from coming to this forum for help. Perhaps not answering to a question in a civil manner would be best.

[lanier]

Good question in reality, liver enzymes go up and down for many reasons.  the liver is such a major part of metabolic function, so diet and many other things can raise liver enzymes and if there are no other underlying symptoms that your friend brings up and asks for the hcv blood test the health care professional will not request the blood work, after all it costs more.
So ask for RNA blood test (genetic material) it is detected through the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) which is a specific region of duplicating DNA or RNA.  SVR information your writing indicates your friend has nothing to test for that is a reason the healthcare office is not interested in billing your insurance any further.  Many health care workers see a 6 months SVR constitutes a cure and liver enzymes are really meaningless in the big picture for your friend the SVR is the prize.

[sallyo]

Thank you. That is kind of what I thought.  My fear is that the svr is only the Vl being undectable at 614 and that it is still there just at a low level.  I will advise him to ask for the RNA test to be sure.

[Jakied]

For me, if I had Hcv and cleared after treatment, i would have a qualitative pcr test once every year or two.  I know most people who clear Hcv retain the antibody for a LONG time, maybe for life.  Is your friend still antibody +?

I know the qualitative Pcr test is more sensitive than the quantitative Pcr.

Good luck to your friend.  I hope he maintains 'Svr.'