Maxorpio never mentioned that he had elevated liver enzymes much less persistently elevated liver enzymes.
He stated that his SGPT was 17 which is well within the normal reference range.
His question was about bilirubin and his direct bilirubin was within the reference range. His total and indirect bilirubin were elevated.
Mike
Hello and hope you are doing well.
Persistently elevated liver enzymes could be an indication for liver biopsy. This is planned after correlating with imaging studies, clinical symptoms and other blood tests. Elevated levels can occur with liver disease, but other causes for the enzyme elevation could be muscle disease or injury. Some medications can also raise these levels. Discuss these options with your consulting doctor.
Hope this helped and do keep us posted.
At this time there is no cure for Hepatitis B. The disease can be managed though.
I found the following at:
http://www.hepb.org/patients/hepatitis_b_treatment.htm
"Approved Drugs for Adults
The future looks bright for individuals living with chronic hepatitis B. Only a decade ago there were no treatment options. Although there is still no complete cure for hepatitis B, there are 7 approved drugs for adults (2 for children) and many promising new drugs in development. Current treatments seem to be most effective in those who show signs of active liver disease
Not every person with chronic hepatitis B needs to be on medication. You should talk to your doctor about whether you are a good candidate for drug therapy or a clinical trial. Be sure that you understand the pros and cons of each treatment option.
Whether you decide to start treatment or not, it is very important to be seen by a liver specialist or doctor knowledgeable about hepatitis B on a regular basis."
Mike
My sister son is 16 years and he was infected with hepatitis B last year June - 2012 and his bilirubin was 14 and by one month it came down to 2.2 and then to 1.8. When we did test yesterday 12-Mar-2012 it has gone up to 2.5. Can you please let us know if it takes 1+ years to get hepatitis B cure?
Any suggestion helps.
Thanks in advance.
Ravi - +91-9900777110
Shankar_R1***@****
Your SGPT (ALT) which is the most specific liver enzyme is also within the normal range.
Therefore I don't see any evidence of a problem with your liver.
Your indirect bilirubin is elevated.
There is a disorder called Gilbert's Syndrome in which the indirect or unconjugated bilirubin is elevated and the direct or conjugated bilirubin is normal. Gilbert's is considered to be a benign condition and poses no threat. This is not an uncommon disorder.
Indirect bilirubin can also elevate if there is hemolysis going on. Hemolysis is the premature destruction of red blood cells. It can be due to a genetic disorder, disease or it can be drug induced - medication etc.
Good luck,
Mike