hcv, biopsy done

[Moca3]

I had a biopsy yesterday. I will have a ct scan this week. Since I had a biopsy I don’t think I need a ct scan since the biopsy can show major problems with the liver. Do I need a ct scan as well.  It is necessary eventhough  I had a liver biopsy.

Moca3

[Moca3]

Thank you Hector for all that input information, very highly appreciated. This a very valuable information. And cost it is nothing compare with life. I will expend every penny toward my health. Very interesting what a Ct scan can do. And I appreciate all the members in this forum for the support I have received. Thank you a million to all of you. God Bless you.

Moca3

[HectorSF]

An abdominal CT scan provides information about a number of different aspects of liver disease. The CT scan can see any anatomical abnormalities such as an enlarged spleen, enlarged or shrunken liver, nodular surface of the liver, enlarged portal vein, and collateral veins without contrast. Then a pass can be done with contrast to enhance viewing of any masses seen in the liver. The CT scan if it uses three phases can determine if a liver mass is characteristic of HCC (liver cancer).

If you have cirrhosis is is extremely important to have any mass in your liver be diagnosed and if it is liver cancer, caught and treated as early as possible. Liver cancer has no symptoms in its early stages, yet if it not caught early and treated early it is one of the two main causes of death in patients with liver disease in the US.
While I understand that cost is an issue, when it comes to a very deadly cancer each person needs to weigh the cost vs benefit. As someone who has been fighting liver cancer for over 2 years now I can tell you or anyone that is not something you ever want to experience if you can avoid it in anyway.

"Computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) is a noninvasive diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal, or axial, images (often called slices) of the body.
A CT scan of the abdomen may be performed to assess the abdomen and its organs for tumors and other lesions, injuries, intra-abdominal bleeding, infections, unexplained abdominal pain, obstructions, or other conditions, particularly when another type of examination, such as X-rays or physical examination, is not conclusive.

NOTE: Patients with kidney failure or other kidney problems should notify their doctor. In some cases, the contrast dye can cause kidney failure, especially if the person is dehydrated or already has underlying kidney disease. The effects of kidney disease and contrast agents have attracted increased attention over the last decade, as patients with kidney disease are more prone to kidney damage after contrast exposure."

Best of luck to you!
Hector

[Moca3]

Thanks for the explanation of HCC. I believe what most people said here, that a ct scan would be helpful in detecting other areas of my body for possible cancer or tumors. And, yes one of the my main concerns is the cost although my insurance pays the 80% I have to pay the 20% which if isn't necessary I can avoid the cost. But if the test is for ruling out other possible problems without a doubt I do it whatever the cost.

Moca3

[can-do-man]

If this is correct......" a Ct scan of the abdomen with and w/o contrast." I am not sure why he would do both, maybe some confusion as I see no purpose.

I have had CT scans with contrast before and they are very simple to have, nothing like having a biopsy as one is able to drive themselves . The only thing I noticed was a warm flushing feeling for a couple of minutes.

[can-do-man]

Here's a link that gives you some ideal... It doesn't hurt to ask any question to your doctor as to why..... Not knowing anything about your prior health history or anything with current labs that might suggest to your doctor as to why this should be done. If cost is the problem I can see why one might question it unless labs or biopsy results suggest it needs to be... Good luck to you.

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003789.htm

[pooh55811]

HCC are the initials for Hepatocellular Carcinoma (liver cancer). Most people who get HCC have Cirrhosis (Stage 4 liver fibrosis) although people with Stage 3 liver fibrosis can be at some risk for HCC also.

Your doctor sounds very thorough and seems to be checking for any possible problems.

[Moca3]

Thank you for your response. The doctor ordered two tests: a CT Guided biopsy of the liver and a Ct scan of the abdomen with and w/o contrast. I made the appointments for both at the same hospital, this past Friday for the biopsy which I had it done and next Friday for the ct scan of the abdomen.   I think both tests are for different purposes. But definitely tomorrow I will contact my doctor and ask him. By the way what it means HCC.

Moca3

[can-do-man]

One reason I can think of is if there are any signs of cirrhosis, some doctors will do this even if people are mid stage 3. A CT scan with contrast is done to rule out HCC. It looks to me that your doctor is ruling out any possible problems. If you are concerned you might ask your doctor is reasons for this............ Good luck, and the best on your biopsy results.