Liver query

[kmb152]

I am 40 years old. Drinking history, recently reduced to 10 units a week. Before, about 40 a week. I have recently had sypmtoms of liver disease. Sore skin that is similar to mild sunburn on my lower torso and back. Not itchy but irritated. A rash sometimes appears in the evening but the irritation is there all day with no rash. This has been happening for about two weeks. Do angiomas come and go? I may have some evidence on upper toros but they are not always there and I cannot easily see a central arteriole. I have lost some weight and am not sleeping well but I suspect that may be linked to my level of worry. I originally becam concerned due to upper right pain. I have had LFT tests april 07 and January 08. Both normal. Also an abdominal ultrasound was performed in august 07 and january 08. Both showing normal liver, spleen etc in terms of size and structure. Ducts all showing normal size also . May I ask for your opinion on whether liver disease is likely? Thanks.

[balesh]

Dear sir
Since last two year my periodic medical examination show high SGPT/SGPTand Alk.phosphate but no any lever trouble,but last week i have been found HapatitisB virous positive,so my query is that is it curable?or what next to be done to avoid more damage to my lever,

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Difficult to comment on the skin lesions without evaluation.

If the diagnosis is still in question, you can consider a skin biopsy via a dermatologist.

Normal LFTs as well as a normal ultrasound would make liver disease unlikely.  

One consideration that can present with both skin lesions and liver disease would be primary biliary cirrhosis or primary sclerosing cholangitis.  

If these options are suspected, a liver biopsy and antibody testing can be considered and discussed with your gastroenterologist.

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 patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com