Why does it matter if its before or after injection. Wouldn't the person treat until pcr results
Dave, I think Portann’s point was to take the test as close to 12-week mark as possible in order to maximize chances of clearing.
Bill
Bill- There are no grey areas, only black and white!
(I think it's interesting that grey can be spelled gray also, it's a grey/gray area in itself!)
sorry, i'll shut up now. LOL
Hi Specta,
Interesting question and I'm only guessing.
I'd say it's to bring uniformity to the decision-making process of whether to continue treatment, i.e., if you're UND or have a two log drop at week twelve. So it's important to establish a consistent point in time for everyone.
What if instead you took the test the day of your week twelve injection and weren't clear but were about to clear in a day or two or have a two log drop? Well, then you'd be dropped from tx, right?
Conversely, if you sneak in an extra injection (the 13th), then you're not clearing with twelve injections. I suppose that it doesn't mean that the science is that precise but simply that there's a clear convention is in place.
And it goes without saying you continue your meds until an official decision is made with your doc!!! :)
Susan
A 2 log drop at 12 weeks can still mean there is virus present. I think the 2 log thing is for non responders. My understanding undect is what I need to have at the end of 12 weeks. Per MD, studies show if not undec at 12 weeks there is a 5% chance to achieve SVR. My guess is if you clear after week 12, you are more likely to relapse.
I've dropped 2+ logs to 4800 at week 8. If I had 4800, a 2 log drop at week 12, it would not be good news. So the 2log thing seems worthless as it doesn't predict clearing at week 12.
I plan to take my week 12 viral load on the morning of week 13 start.
pcds, the two log drop is for SLOW responders.
A 2 log drop by week 12 (in the absence of UND) is to calculate the decision to extend tx to 72 weeks, an option for those who want to take their chances or who don't have the luxury of waiting to see how the stat-c's play out off-trial.
Best regards and my bet is you're UND at week twelve. Keep your spirits up but it's hard, hard to wait and we all know the feeling well.
xoxo
Susan
If UND, you may still want to get a second opinion from a hepatologist, in case you want to switch to someone more experienced.
With minor liver damage and in today's climate of rapid development with stat-c drugs, I wouldn't hesitate to stop treatment if detected at week twelve; I'd watch and wait under the care of the best hepatologist I could find.
So best wishes on your PCR - the waiting is hard but be sure to tell your nurse to phone you asap and not let the lab report kick around on her desk.
And make sure to get your 12 week PCR done on the day of your thirteenth shot but before you actually do the shot. Or as close to the day as possible.
Regards,
Susan