New Hep C diagnosis

[Yourstruly110]

My son is on state assistance which limits his availability to the medical community.  He just forwarded the results of his Hepatic Function Panel.  At age 28, his AST is at 47H and ALT is at 116H with a Type 1b diagnosis.  I understand this type is less responsive to therapy, but what are his best alternatives?  It sounds like new clinical trials show promise.  Should he wait?

[Mary4now]

His young age may be a benefit to him.  Best of luck and good thought your way,

[Bill1954]

If treatment is required, the pharmaceutical companies can supply the meds for free, if he meets the income requirements. These drugs can be rather pricey; the retail cost for interferon and ribavirin can easily exceed U.S. $25,000/year. He can call either of these numbers for further information:

Pegassist (Roche Pegasys system): 1-877-734-2797

Commitment to Care (Schering- Plough PEG-Intron system): 1-800-521-7157

He might also consider entering a clinical trial; there are a lot of very exciting new products being studied right now. These trials can provide free medical treatment, inclusive of drug costs as well.

Best of luck—

Bill

[Yourstruly110]

Thank you for your help!  I'll see what I can find for him in the Spokane area.

[Debbie556]

I agree with Jim. Also you can find out if there are any studies being done in your area. They are done at the teaching hospitals.Most of them cover all medical cost and even the liver biopsy. Good luck

[jmjm530]

He needs a liver biopsy to find out how much liver damage he has. After that, you will be in a better position to make a decision on whether to treat now or wait.

-- Jim