tx question for 3a

Hello - thank you to everyone who responded to my last post.  It is so great to people able to communicate with others about this (as I haven't with any friends or co-workers).
I am seeing my doctor today (for the first time).  Just curious if anyone can tell me what to expect as far as treatment recommendations?  I am type 3a, in my 20s, female (contracted from my mom at birth) and very healthy.  I see stuff about 16 weeks vs. 24 vs. 48? Does anyone know the "normal" range of treatment and what type?  I see stuff about GI 5005 and interferon/ribaviron or pegyinterferon/ribaviron?  Will a doctor recommend one that's best?

Also, I am getting a second opinion from a hepatologist on Mar. 26, so I will compare what he says. Thanks in advance for all your information!

[nygirl7]

The treatment for a geno 3 would be 24 weeks - don't be fooled.  They call geno 3 one of the "lucky" genotypes however if you've been on this forum for a long time you would see how many relapses we've seen. Cutting treatment short because of one study just makes no sense to me.

anyway - first off you have to find out how much liver damage you have.  Hopefully since you are young and healthy you haven't drank alot or anything so you shouldn't hopefully have too much damage.  You need to get a biopsy (it isn't painful like it sounds like it would be - your liver has no nerves to feel any pain) that will tell you the truth about where you stand.

If you don't have any damage (or slight damage) you have time to wait and see what new drugs come down the pipeline.  They might be easier or have a shorter time period or more effective.

Treatment isn't a lot of fun but it is doable.

Just find out where you stand and then make an educated decision.

[hippygem]

Hi Im a geno 3, did tx for 24 weeks and relapsed, I had stage 3 fibrosis.
Now they say that any geno 3 with fibrosis should be on longer duration of treatment and a higher dose.
See what your biopsy results are then go from there and pose the question to your specialist, do your own research and take the information with you to the consultation.
Sometimes we have to tell the doctors what WE want.

[hippygem]

Sorry didnt read your post properly, you are only 20 and doesnt seem likely that you would have any stage of fibrosis, so I guess you are looking at 24wks.