way to alleviate PSC symptoms

[skyeweaver]

Hello Dr Schiano,

I've been suffering from PSC for over 4 years now - at least this was the time I was diagnosed. As I wrote some time ago my GGTP revolves around 300, ALAT=120-150[U/L], ASPAT=59-70[U/L], BIL=1.45-1.93[mg/dL], ALP=483-586[U/l] and I've been evaluated to have a MELD score of 11.

Recently I have heard about the Prometheus system (by Fresenius Medical Care) for liver dialysis.
What I would like to ask you about is whether this machine can be used for partial liver recovery and regeneration in PSC? I wonder if it would help to get rid of all kinds of toxins that the liver can't handle by its own, particularly the bile which seeps into the bloodstream and causes itching which is something that can make one go crazy and out of one's mind.

I would appreciate your opinion.
Good day.
Paul.

[Thomas D Schiano, MD]

the liver assist device is not approved and the thought is that it might be used for potentially subfulminant liver failure.  i do not think unfortunately it will help your itching which might be helped by ursodiol.

[stub0202]

I was diagnosed with PSC about 2 1/2 months ago, but I fear that I have had it much longer.  My gall bladder was removed about 10 years ago when I had extreme abdominal pain and intense itching.  Ever since, I have not really had those symptoms.  Now that I have been diagnosed with PSC, how do I know when I should go see my gastro doctor.  Lately, I have had body aches/muscle cramps/diarrhea with fatty, grey chunks coming out.  I'm not sure if this is just some virus I have or if this is something related to my PSC and Celiac disease diagnosis.  I last had my blood drawn in January and everything was fine and I'm on ursodiol everyday.  Please let me know what you think.  My email address is ***@****

Thank you
Brian