Hep C Chirossis

Dr. I am 64 white female with COPD and Hep C and now Chirrosis (cirrhosis) I am a 2 time non-responder to Interferon and Riberviron, I lastly saw a Dr. Chiptini at Copper Hospital in Camden NJ I am on medicade and NJ Health HMO, I know you won't see me as a patient because of this. Dr. here in South jersey there is very little help for my condition, we only have a few (7) doctors who will care for HepC patients. It is very frustrating to me as I beleive I need the right meds to miminize the discomfort I have every day now, I have Osteo _Aritius in both knees and was told years ago I needad a double replacement but didn't do it, now no one will do it because of my liver, also my legs are now hurting all the time, I have weight on me too, can;t seem to lose apound I am 5ft 7in and weight 188, I never was this heavy? Had liver biopsy in 2008 .Stating my liver is showing disruption of normal shape and have severe portal fibrosis, Dr. I feel like I am running out of options and time, what do you recomend as far as any meds for me? At least I could tell this new Dr. what you said?  Thank You

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

i unfortunately may not be par with your insurance but my colleague nancy bach may be, and she is in satellites of ours in Monmouth and englewood.  we may also be able to see you in our liver transplant office for a consultation.  Please call 2122410034 and inquire about seeing dr bach in monmouth and let me know.  

[Miss604]

Dear Dr Schiano, Thank you for your responce, however, I asked you about other meds for Chirossis, Are there any that will "stop" the progression of this awful pain I have in my side, legs and back? I wanted to see my new Dr (on Sept 22) and know what I could ask for? I called Dr Bach and was told I would have to wait till Nov to make an appt.!! IN both locations, Dr. time is important to me, I am older, my health is failing and I am alone with no children or friends or family left..PLEASE could you tell me what the chances are of a 64 yr old woman getting a liver when the waiting list is so long? Plus I am on Medicade, when there are sick people out there with CASH ...I just wanted to know if Chirrosis (cirrhosis) CAN be stopped (I know there is no cure) with any meds, and please be honest with me, I feel absolutly so alone Dr.   Cathy Burgos

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

if you email me your name and phone number on this blog or separaretly i will see if dr bach can see you a lot sooner.  unfortunately there are no medications available to prevent cirrhosis from getting worse.  it is however extremely important to get into the transplant system so we can screen you appropriately and eduacte you as to things to avoid, etc.