New Test Results - Liver Biopsy

[her7704]

I just received my pathology report for my CT guided Liver Core Needle Biopsy for 2 unspecified lesions found on US & MRI w/contrast. Microscopic diagnosis - Hepatic Parenchyma with prominent parenchymal fibrosis including septal fibrosis and focal perivenular and sinusoidal fibrosis.  Portal and lobular inflammation with limited bile duct proliferation.  Minimal, patchy steatosis.  No evidence of neoplasia or malignancy.  Does this finding shed any light on the problems I have been having over the years?  I'm now thinking  most of my symptoms have been caused by a chronic liver disease. I have my GI appt on 8/14, but thought I would do some research before I went.  Thoughts?  Thank you. Medical History: 41 yr old Female. No meds. Abnormal test results are: ESR 30-45 10+ yrs, polyclonal gammopathy IgM 1,000 - 1,400 since 2002, pelvic US - moderate ascites 2005, albumin 3.5 2007, anterior uveitis 1x 2002, small cataracts in both eyes. Recent negative tests: ANA,ANCA,AMA,RF,SSA,SSB,Alpha-1-antitrypsin,Hep function panel, CBC w/Diff, Hepatitis Panel,PT/PTT,metabolic panel,Chest CT/contrast. Recent/current symptoms - Red palms, dry eyes, petechiae, shortness of breath /chest tightness(no congestion/mucous)/high BP & pulse (resolved with albuteral nebulizer/inhaler/inhaled steriods), pneumonia 1/07. Past symptoms over 10 years but haven't had in a while: joint pain, fatigue, muscle pain, muscle twitching, numbness/tingling in extremities, confusion/disorientation, DUB.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The biopsy findings shows fibrosis - which may be a precursor to cirrhosis.  There is no evidence of cancer, which is comforting.  

Palmar redness and petechiae may be signs of end-stage liver disease.  However, the shortness of breath and chest tightness typically are not caused by the liver.  Further tests like an echocardiogram can be considered to evaluate the heart.  Pulmonary function tests can be done to evaluate lung function.  

The negative rheumatologic tests makes diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis less likely.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_