liver biopsy

I was just diagnosed with Hep C yesterday via blood test.  My ALT  and AST have been elevated for at least a year.  Last test ALT was 381 and AST 241.  Hep C test came in at 11.0.  I have appt. with hep doc this Tuesday and have been reading almost constantly last two days to determine if my results are 'typical' in Hep C diagnosis.  I understand I will need additional tests but my question is does every one with Hep C require a liver biopsy. ?  Just trying to prepare myself!  So glad I found this site.  Thanks all for sharing your experiences and knowledge!

[frijole]

It may not be required, but it sure is recommended.  Your enzymes are pretty elevated and if I were you, I would want to know the extent of the damage.  Welcome to the forum. There are a lot of informed people here who can tell you many things.  

frijole

[willbb]

Hi there..sorry to hear about your most recent diagnosis.   Your 11.0 would mean you have most likely just had the antibodies test.and will still need the HCV/RNA by PCR test to confirm whether or not you have active HCV infection.

Sounds like you got a quick appoint. with a Hepa.. as sometimes takes what seems like forever.  So..they will run the above test and  if confirmed do a geno type  test and then depending on those results possibly discuss with you a biopsy and subesquent treatment options.

The biopsy is still considered the best way to ascertain the amount of liver damage (fibrosis) you may have and to best plan when to treat.

treatment  today is approx. 75% succesful ..and things seem to be looking even brighter  for the future..

Good luck..and welcome to the group..
Will

[Resilient_Mimi]

Man, I know what your going thru, it is alot of info to process.  The biopsy is not that bad, it sounds alot worse than the actual procedure.  I just want you to know there is a light at the end of your tunnel.  I have began treatments for the Hep C on Aug 1st this year, and I have became undetectable in 4 weeks, I have the hardest Hep C to treat(Genotype 1a) and I have cleared the virus.  I will always have it, but it is no longer damaging my liver!! They have new medicine to treat this virus, and it is working!! Good luck!! And know that the power of PRAYER is amazing!!