AutoImmune Hepatitis questions

[2Young4This]

Hi everybody!  I am so glad I found this forum.  I was diagnosed with AIH in Nov. of 2004.  I am on Prednisone 5mg, Immuran 75mg and I was just put on a new drug called Entocort EC 3mg.  Have you ever heard of that?  I also have Lupus, Hypothyroidism and acid reflux disease.  The sucky thing is I am only 28!  I do not have nay children but would like to.  I have had two liver biopsies (laproscopically).  The odd thing about this whole ordeal is that my liver enzymes have NEVER been that elevated.  ALT 165 and AST 92.  So it was quite a shock when they did the biopsy and found that my results were pretty bad.  Grade of Portal inflammation- 3 of 4; Lobular inflammation- 3 of 4; Stage of Fibrosis- 3 of 4 with Bridging fibrosis present.  Moderate inflammatory activity involving all portal tracts with prominent periportal involvement.  Not sure what all that means... Anyways I am concerned about this new drug?  Have any of you heard of it?  Just curious...

[cat33]

    I misquated something they told me. Bridging fibrosis leads to scarring of liver which is beginning of cirrhosis .  Sorry

[cat33]

    Your right you are to young for this. I had been given blood tests for about 15 years every 6 months just as a check up because of my BP. My ALT and AST had always been normal. Till one morning I faded into oblivion and don't remember the next 3-4 days. My husband thought I had had a stroke. I saw all kinds of Dr.,s and all they could find was high ammonia levels . Since that is associated with liver, after monitoring me for 6 months.Like you I had a biopsy. and found basically the same things you mentioned. With one exception cirrhosis can not be helped with meds. Therefore I was sent for pre liver transplant eveluation. So make sure (maybe even get a second opinion ). Once they mention 4 thats not good news it's end stage. Hopefully I am misreading your post. Good luck.

[9743km]

Hmmm....I have never heard of that drug.  Have you done any research on the internet about it?  Is it a anti inflammatory?  If those are your current ALT and AST numbers those are quite high.  The normal range for each of those should be no more then 50-60.  But I know what you mean, about being quite shocked.  I didn't know I was sick at all, one day felt like I had the flu, all the sudden I had AIH, had a biopsy, and I do have some cirrhosis.  I didn't even know I was sick.  My liver Dr. told me any type of liver disease is a silent killer.  Your liver can take a lot so it just takes the abuse for a long time, as it is quietly withering away.  But I seem to be on the road to recovery and I just try to stay positive all day.  The good thing about this disease is that it is treatable, and you can lead a very normal life.  You will be fine having children!!!  I'm sure of it!