High lipase and amylase

Hi,  I am treating for the 2nd time in a boceprevir trial. I have stage 4 grade 3 liver disease. My blood work for the last 6 weeks or so had slowly rising amylase and lipase levels They are in the 400's now.I have no new pain.  I had a ultrasound and my gall bladder and pancresis  are normal so they didn't say anymore about it. Can it be from having liver disease or from treatment. Is it something to worry about. The nurse at the trial said it was from rh factor or something ....not to worry.I don't think that is correct but don't know what it means.
             Thanks for your opinion,       Libby

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

slight elevations in amylase and lipase may be seen in chronic liver disease.  however, if you are part of a trial and are receiving study medication this may be concerning.  I am not sure if this is a preclusion to the trial or if this is being reported as an adverse event.  the levels should continue to be trended to make sure that they do not continue to rise.