AIH diagnosis

[Rose53]

Hello, I have had elevated liver enzymes for the past four years.  It's always the ALT that is higher than AST.  I recently found out that I have an elevated atypical pANCA and my gastro doctor said that with that "staining" and my symtoms he is pretty sure that I have Autoimmune Hepatitis.  He suggested a Hepatologist and a liver biopsy.  The problem, I am worried.  I can't get in to see a Hepatologist for 6 weeks and who  knows how long for a liver biopsy.  I also have Celiac Disease, Fibromyalgia, Thyroid Disease, Sarcoidosis and a heart condition relating to Rheumatic Fever as a child.  Autoimmune is word I am very familiar with.  Is a liver biopsy absolutely necessary to diagnosis AIH?
I have a normal SED rate but the doctor said that isn't relative, normal SED rate is common in people with AIH.  I am concerned about this being put off.  I've read a lot about how important it is to treat AIH. I continue to think that this has been going on for four years so a little more time won't matter.  But I didn't have symtoms of pain or nausea before. I also have a lot of itching not horrible but annoying.  Any thoughts?
Thank you, Sheila

[Mbsunny54]

Noticed that the dates on these forums are several years old. What's up with that? I was diagnosed with AIH feb 9 2012. Today is May 2, 2012. I need current info. Who can help me?

[lanier]

Hi Sheila,
listen if he kicked you to the curb when your having this many health issues, your better of.  ..I got divorced while discovering I was chronic, it's a good way to weed out till death do us part or not.  I hope your smiling cause I am trying so hard to be funny.

It is a real drag to have all the emotional stuff and be so sick.  I had the shingles, IBS, colitis and was drinking fine wine everyday while trying to "cope" with death and divorce.  I had to give up the wine (;( when I was diagnosed.  But I know the divorce was a blessing in disguise.

The liver biopsy is the best option to find out exactly where you stand.  I got my viral load and went within 2 weeks.  After at least you know what that particular organ is "up too"  your gastro could refer you to the biopsy quicker maybe and you could courtesy copy the hep doc when you go.  You will want these results in hard copy anyway.  
Good luck to you,
Lani

[Rose53]

Thanks Jim, that's what I I feel too.  Part of the problem is that I have been playing the waiting game since May when numerous problems made themselves known on my annual physical.  That led to one specialist and waiting and tests and waiting and another specialist and waiting and more tests and waiting, it went on and on.  So far I've been diagnoised with 4 new health problems and a cancer scare. So, after all the bad news (except of course the benign breast mass) I don't have much patience left and even less optimisim. Thanks for answering I appreciate this forum being here.  Oh, by the way I got served with divorce papers last week.  That didn't help.  Sheila

[jmjm530]

No one likes to wait but it's often part of the process. It's good that your gastro suggested a hepatologist who will be best qualified to diagnose and treat if necessary. You've had elevated enzymes for 4 years so I doubt (and I assume your GI doubts) that another six weeks will make much difference. Certainly no one here is able to diagnosis or treat you sooner :) That said, if you feel you should be seen earlier -- call the hepatologist's office and explain your concerns to a nurse, or maybe your GI can act on your behalf if he thinks it's warranted.

-- Jim