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Dec 10, 2012 - 7:04 am
Last summer, I was diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis. This seems to be complicating my CRC follow up. My CEA, previously dependable for me, appears no longer so. I have been told my slowly rising CEA is due to the hepatitis. Scans of my liver are also confused by the hepatitis. I am concerned that what I previously depended on no longer serves me well and the hepatitis will mask a recureence. I do have a good team at Mass General, including a liver speciatiist. I am still learning about autoimmune hepatitis. Am I overreacting? Any advice or questions I should be asking? Cathleen Mary |
Joined: Jan 2010
Dear Cathleen Mary
So sorry to hear of this complication. Can you tell us how they determined that you have autoimmune hepatitis? From the little I have read it seems the only sure way to know the difference between this and mets to liver is with a biopsy.
Are you being treated for AH? If so with what?
I can certainly understand your concers regarding the reliability of tests given this added issue. I am glad to hear that you feel you have a good team of docs working with you on this.
I wish I had answers or suggestions for you, but am woefully ignorant of this subject. Perhaps with a bit more research I can find out more.
Prayers for you as you move forward,
Marie who loves kitties
Joined: May 2011
Thanks, Marie. Yes, the
Thanks, Marie. Yes, the autoimmune hepatitis was diagnosed through a liver biopsy. A liver biopsy was done because of elevated CEA, LFTs,. They have mentioned doing a liver biopsy every year or two which may mean you are quite right....it is the only way to differ between the hepatitis and mets. Not sure; this is all knew to me. The autoimmune hepatitis, in and of itself, is pretty overwhelming. I appreciate your response.
Cathleen Mary
Joined: Jun 2006
sorry
Oh Cathleen Mary....so sorry to read this news. I too know nothing about AH but I wanted to drop you a note to say I will be thinking about you and sending a prayer or two.
I am sure this news must be very difficult to absorb......
best love,
mary margaret
Joined: Nov 2011
Cathleen Mary, I agree with
Cathleen Mary, I agree with Mary Margret.. what is with the sisterly names I keep reading tonight..
I wanted to say I will look into this I have never heard of this before..if I find anything I will let you know..
Sorry it must be fustrating to have little knowledge of what you have.. take care...
Joined: Apr 2010
Hi, try to get Dr. Kenneth
Hi, try to get Dr. Kenneth Tanabe for any liver surgery at MGH - he's one heck of a surgeon, and known world wide
Will chat more later by PM.
Luv,
Cynthia