Low platelets update

[gazebo1]

As I had posted earlier, I had TX side effects including low platelets, thrombocytopenia/ITP. 2 months post TX platelets crashed to 19K and did the IVig transfusions and hospitalized four days. Really was pretty critical for a time. My doctors, both my hepatologist and hematologist, debating if interferon, ribivirin or an underlying autoimune contition surfacing.

Now, 5 months later my PLT count has been back up staying around 80 to 110K, so docs think my base line is normally lower, and I'll be OK.  So if others have their platelets crash during or post TX, it is not uncommon and another SX of the interferon.  I am now moving on to possible back surgery to releive acute facet joint disease, so getting PLT up has been key.  Anyway, just an update since a few buddies on the board had posted in the past asking about my progress.  AND, sitll SVR since last May, yippie!!  (However, still fighting to get my stamina back and have the riba rage flashbacks.)

Judy

[Tallahassee]

I'm very happy for you! -- I always wanted to comment to your posts, but I didn't have any important and/ or helpfull information to report.

All the best!

[gazebo1]

I had a couple spine docs over the past 3 years give opinions, but since it is facet joint and not disc they were not eager to do any surgery or try the new "wedge" implants (that don't last long anyway.)  But last fall I finally found a neurosurgeon who is confident that a limited fusion porcedure will help me greatly.  He does the stereotactic surgery (link to general info on wik - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stereotactic_surgery) that is much less invasive, but with low PLT it has been a long road to get going.  I still may need PLT tranfusions for the operation.  You may recall I've had this acute pain for years that all goes back to the car crash in mid 80's - when ortho surgeries included blood tranfusions that had the hep C in the mix.  So, cross my fingers I can finally get relief.  So to sum up my answer, see a neurosurgeon if other spine docs don't have a plan.And actually they now do more stereotactic on cervical than lumbar, so check it out.

And like you said, TX really takes it out of us.  Brain fog and lack of stamina still the most bothersome, but eating ok and all rashes and lung problems cleared up.

Warm regards,  G

[ladybug52]

So good to hear you are still hanging in there! Who is doing your surgery. By that I mean what kind of dr? I have some neck problems, spinal stenosis and bulging discs at C5-6, C6-7. I'm sure you're familar with the terms stenosis and herniated discs, right? What kind of back surgery are you contemplating?
I feel pretty good since tx, mainly had to work to get my brain jump-started. It kinda stalled on tx and if my daughter hadn't constantly pointed it out to me, I would have thought there was nothing I could do about it. I still have a weak battery upstairs, but I'm working on it :)
Take care and post again. I don't get on here much, but am thrilled when I see a name that meant a lot to me during tx!
Hugs,
Bug