how can results be positive one time and not another

[redvic56]

what kind of standard allows this margin of error. I was diagnosed with both Hep B & C based on other tests, It was found that Hep B had no DNA. I then went through hell after my tumor was diagnosed as benign. Now I question the C diagnoses. My only exposure was more than 25 years ago. How can I be sick when my liver scan shows homogenous echo except for a cyst. Please stop the madness!

[redvic56]

Thanks for the response. After no DNA on the Hep B they re-tested for surface antigen, negative. Hep C viral load is 1.5 mil, log 6.182. Subsequent CT scan found a pancreatic tumor and a 14mm cyst on the liver, but no damage or scarring. The pancreatic tumor is a benign neoplasm after EUS w/FNA biopsy and the GI Oncologist says the cyst is enough to elevate AST/ALT. I just question the exposure, as I was fine until surgeries in 2005 for an open fracture. I have had other cancer issues, stage II melanoma and a pending for ovarian cancer based on the CT w/contrast.It is a rough road right now, and Hep C is at the bottom of the priority list. I will not return to the referring GI as the office is a shambles with mis-filing and telling me 2 week waits for lab results that were done in 48 hrs. I'm just going day to day right now.

[JennyPenny]

It sounds as if you've been through the mill. I'm sorry you are having such a hard time. Your B diagnosis sounds to me that you were exposed or had hep B and then your body took care of fighting it off, hence no virus in the blood. However, with hep C, you'd need to have an HCV/RNA by PCR (viral load test) to know for sure if you have the virus. The ultrasound only tells you about the architecture of the liver. It cannot tell you if you have hepatitis C. An exposure 25 years ago can definitely mean hepatitis C today. Please have that PCR test and know for sure.

[merryBe]

old machines, less accurate machines, human error including slide contamination.
finding parts per million is not easy. Machines must be well maintains and kept clean.

go to:

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/show/383166

this thread will help you.

it is crazy-making to be sure,

mb