Is there a problem with my liver?

[idahogirl2175]

I had my gallbladder removed three weeks ago today.  At the same time a liver biopsy was done because I mentioned to the doctor that my bilirubin levels have been slightly elevated for the last couple of years.  The results of the gallbladder came back as being chronic inflammation.  But what concerns me is the biopsy result on my liver showed fibrous portal expansion stage 1.  They did another bloodtest, I believe an antimitochondrial antibody test, to test for primary biliary cirrhosis.  Yesterday they told me that the blood test was negative and that I was okay.  His explanation for the biopsy was "everybody has something different with their bodies, this is yours".  I don't feel completely comfortable with this and will probably be getting a second opinion.  But I was wondering if anybody else has gone through something like this or might have some possible answers for me.

[KjFlicka]

Good luck on that! I'm sure everything will be fine. I like Idaho.... I'm in Oregon. ;-)

And, yes, please let us know!

Nicole

[idahogirl2175]

Thank you for your response.  I did schedule an appointment with my regular doctor for the 22nd.  I am going to specifically ask for the liver panel and antimitochondrial antibody tests.  It's not that I WANT something to be wrong, but I would like to make sure that nothing is wrong.  And running the correct tests will help ease my mind or get me going on whatever it is that I need to do.  I will let you know what I find out.

Christine

P.S.  I am about 4 hours away from Boise.

[KjFlicka]

I think I hear what you're saying about your doctor not really putting an obvious 1 + 1 together.... fibrous portal expansion + elevated bilirubin = start of liver disease?? And I don't think a thyroid test can eliminate a possible liver issue as my thyroid levels always were normal and I certainly had/have cirrhosis. I would ask specifically for a liver panel (blood test) and then anything should be laid out for doctor with flashing lights if there is actually a problem. Best of luck and let us know how it goes!

Nicole

PS. I'm a huge BSU Bronco fan if you're anywhere near Boise...

[idahogirl2175]

I am making a correction on the blood test that the doctor requested, it was a antimicrosomal antibody.  I have a copy of the results and it says that it was a test for my thyroid, it shows normal.  He did tell me that the test was interchangable with the liver test, that's why he says that it is normal.