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I'm a 48 year female w/von willebrands bleeding ...
Sent to Health Experts September 22 03:33 PM

I'm a 48 year female w/von willebrands bleeding disorder. I've been told I've tested positive for hep C but my liver function test comes back normal. My GP doctor advises me not to worry about it unless the liver function test shows signs of concern. She says I may never acturally contract the disease. Is this a reliable answer??

Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
September 22 4:08 PM (35 minutes and 29 seconds later)
         
ACCEPTEDCheck Mark

Well, the answer to your question is both yes and no. Has she made it clear when she wants to retest you?

Take a look at this FAQ question on the CDC website concerning Hepatitis C:

Can you have a normal liver enzyme (e.g., ALT) level and still have chronic hepatitis C?
Yes. It is common for persons with chronic hepatitis C to have a liver enzyme level that goes up and down, with periodic returns to normal or near normal. Some persons have a liver enzyme level that is normal for over a year but they still have chronic liver disease. If the liver enzyme level is normal, persons should have their enzyme level re-checked several times over a 6 to 12 month period. If the liver enzyme level remains normal, your doctor may check it less frequently, such as once a year.

You can read additional information pertaining to Hepatitis C at this same link: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/diseases/hepatitis/c/faq.htm#3a

I also want to provide you with some additional links that I believe will be helpful:

Here is a list of good treatment options once diagnosis has been verified. As you will see on this link, it states that you really should not be seeking out treatment with just your primary care physician. It's recommended that you seek out a hepatologist or a GI who specializes in Hepatitis to insure proper diagnosis/treatment. http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/hepatitis_abc/31772

Please let me know if you have any additional questions.

Shauna



Edited by flwrlover1 on September 22 2005 at 4:10 PM



Please let me know if you have any additional questions. I am more then happy to be of assistance.
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