Help related to AIH/PBC diagnosis

[Ravi2012]

Hi, I am a 30 yrs old male from st louis. I had CBC and CMP done in Nov 2012 and everything was normal. I had another one done in Jan and my ALT was slightly elevated (57), my doc said not to worry about it. I had another one donw 2 weeks ago in Mar and I found that my ALT is 190. Additional tests showed that my GGT 160. and I am week + for ASMA (SMA). My ANA and AMA came negative. In addition to that Dr. found that my IgM is elevated too, 450. Dr. suspecting for AIH and PBC, but asked to repeat these test in 2 weeks before giving any diagnosis. I had an abd cat scan which came normal. I am wondering if one can have thses  disease even if he has normal albumin, billrubin, and ALP? I read over the web and found these disease are incurable and prognsis is ~5years. Is this information up to data? There is no way to stop immune system for doing any damage id the disease is caught at the early stage? Thanks and regards. Ravi

[Ravi2012]

Hi Hector: Thanks very much for taking your time to write me. I am going to find another doc for 2nd opinion. My IgG and IgA are w/in range, although on the high side (IgG:1584, lab max=1600) (IgA:311, lab max:414). Abnormal results are high ALT, GGT, IgM, and SMA. Thanks again. Regards- Ravi

[HectorSF]

You diagnosis doesn't some correct to me. It has been 4 months and you still don't has a diagnosis. That should tell you something.

You need to see a hepatologist (liver specialist) with the experience, knowledge and resources to correctly diagnosis you. A hepatologist can probably correctly diagnosis if you have liver disease in a week or two. You are wasting your time. Any other type of doctor doctor is not qualified to diagnose or treat complicated liver disease.
The best place is - Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis.
To speak with a referral specialist during normal business hours, please call [phone].

What are you  IgG and IgA levels?

An elevated GGT is common among alcohol drinkers.

Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) is positive in nearly all PBC patients. Ultrasound exams and a liver biopsy, in which a small sample of liver tissue is removed with a needle, may also be performed.

"I read over the web and found these disease are incurable and prognsis is ~5 years."
This is NOT true and you may not even have them. I have a friend who has PBC who is almost 80. See a doctor who is the only one who can diagnose you correctly and help you soon. You need to take action or waste time worrying about something that might not even be true.

Good luck!
Hector

[obamabieber]

Statistics! Just statistics! It matters though...but not absolute......... Stay positive....I've seen things....I mean good things....you are not an exception...stay positive and get ur mind off it..it won't change a thing..let the doctor do his job!....life is beautiful..