seeing a specialist

[beacon1951]

hi everyone I'm new here and I have a question. So far I have tested positive for HCV antibodies and I'm waiting on the results of my HCV RNA (quantitative) and genotype bloodwork. my primary doctor has given me a referral to see a Infectious Disease doctor. Most of the posts I've seen in forums indicate that everyone is seeing either a Gastroenterologist or a Hepatologist. Seems like this is the doctor that I'll be seeing for my HCV. Does anyone have any comments positive or negative about this? Thanks in advance.

[beacon1951]

Thanks Advocate I appreciate that invitation.

[Advocate1955]

It's great to prepare yourself either way.  You can read up a bit on Hep C and the current treatments, as well as treatments that are currently being studied.  In a week or so you will have your PCR results and you will know whether you just have the Hep C antibodies or whether you actually have the virus.  Come back here and ask questions.  We are happy to try to help.
Advocate1955

[beacon1951]

thanks for the info can-do I'm going to talk to my primary doc about this if comes to that, hopefully it doesn't but I'm trying to prepare myself either way :)

[can-do-man]

A Hepatologist would be ideal as that is what they specialize in, they are more up to date on treatment and understand the side effects of treatment and also more important if one is cirrhotic. A Gastroenterologist that treats a lot of Hep C patients is also very good and up to date on treatment and the side effects and if one does not have cirrhosis they would be a good choice... As for a Infectious Disease doctor, that sure wouldn't be my first choice for reasons stated above, you want a doctor that understand Hep C and the side effects and how and when to treat them.

Best to you, fingers crossed you only have the antibodies and you won't need to worry about it.............