Hepatitis C and abdominal discomfort

[rj_snk]

Hi

I am a 26 year old guy with Hep c (Genotype 4) problem. I was on Pegasys and Ribravirin for one year. By the end of the treatment, my viral load was undetectable. I had my complete blood work done again on May 3rd (Six months after completion of treatment) and the viral load was undetectable, also my ALT and AST levels were normal(AST=24, ALT=34). On Jun 8th I had another blood work done (My doctor referred me to another Hepatalogist as I moved to a new place, so he asked me to go for the blood work again). My viral load is undetectable but my AST and ALT levels are very high (AST=234, ALT=78). I don't understand what exactly is going on. Do i need to start my treatment again? Do the AST and ALT levels increase by that much with in a span of one month? I read somewhere that if the virus does not come back after 6 months after treatment completion, the patient is cured. I would like to know whether i am cured or not and what kind of treatment i need to take to keep my liver healthy?  Is there any test to check the condition of liver except liver biopsy? Also, for the past one week I have a slight discomfort on the right hand side below the rib cage.

Thank you very much

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Repeating the liver tests can be considered.  A rise in the liver enzymes may signal re-activation of the virus.  However alcohol use and medications can also result in this picture as well.  

If the liver enzymes continue to be elevated, a liver biopsy may be needed, as well as repeating the viral loads.  Serial monitoring of the enzymes is recommended and should be discussed with your hepatologist.

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_