How? Liver biopsy shows improvement in liver degradation

[AnotherJourney]

Two years ago I have a liver biopsy that read as Stage 2 Grade3. I treated unsuccessfully for 12 weeks. I did show response but was a slow responder and the odds werent looking so good so I halted SOC treatment. Other than that, I have implemented some lifestyle changes, mainly cutting out the amount of alchohol consumed and exercise. I just had another biopsy performed and it came back that I am a Stage 1 Grade 2. SO my questions to this forum.... How does that happen?

[eureka254]

That's certainly some good news -- regression instead of progression is always reason for a happy dance!  In addition to what other posters have said, it's also important to remember that liver damage is not homogenous.  Fibrosis is not always evenly distributed throughout the liver, so different core samples may indeed show different stages of damage.  Nonetheless, what's most important is that you've taken strides to improve your liver and that's definitely been a good thing!  ~eureka

[AnotherJourney]

I sort of figured it might be variation in the test. Which makes me wonder why they normally suggest waiting 3 to 5 years between a biopsy.

Liver ensymes panels all tested in normal ranges my last two blood tests. I will say I am really glad now I have waited it out for the protese inhibitors. I suppose it is a crap shoot but I didnt think I could do 72 weeks of SOC with little chance of success. But NY you are right... either way it warrants a happy dance!  

[nygirl7]

Wow that is fantastic news regardless of how it happened but I agree with all that Robert said.  While biopsy is the most reliable method available it still has limitations and as do the people reading the samples themselves.

I too think that the lifestyle changes are a good thing whether they are solely responsible or not - certainly they aren't hurting you that is for sure.

How are your liver enzymes doing?

[RobertBeWell]

It's quite possible that the lifestyle improvements are responsible. Hep C and alcohol are like a fire and gasoline.

Also, it's important to note that grading and staging a biopsy has an element of subjectivity to it. A lot depends on the experience of the pathologist doing the read. I've heard stories where a sample was taken to several different pathologists, and graded/staged differently each time.

But, I'm thinking removing the alcohol and exercise just plain old strengthened the system.

[AnotherJourney]

Oh and one additonal comment. I used to take tylenol PM every night. Once I found out I had Hep c, I cut it out all together. And for the last two years my ALTs have returned to the normal range.