Question about cirrhosis - Hepatitis Message Board

hepperterry · 10-10-2003, 12:22 PM

Hi everyone! I think I know the answer to my own question but want to see what everyone else has to say. How fast can cirrhosis progress? It seems from my gastro's reaction to my last ultrasound (they were able to see surface changes to my liver now) that my cirrhosis is progressing pretty fast. so far my ammonia, bilirubin, albumin and PT ( though the PT is at the high end of normal) are all in normal ranges. Just my liver function tests are out. Just wondering what everyone know about this or have experienced with their own cirrhosis. Thanks!

Terry

thanbey · 10-10-2003, 12:42 PM

Lab tests are an indicator, but the biopsy (only) can tell you what progression there may be.

Bet you knew that, right?

thanbey

hepperterry · 10-10-2003, 01:08 PM

Thanks Thanbey! Back when I had my last biopsy done in '98 it showed then stage 3 with piecemeal necrosis and was worrisome for early cirrhosis. My gastro says it is for sure cirrhosis now. He says he prob won't do another biopsy soon unless something like liver cancer shows up because we know it is cirrhosis. He just for the time being wants to watch it with lab work and watch the cirrhosis (what they can) and any liver cancer that may come up with an ultrasound. He's a really good doctor. He is head of the gastro dept at the University of Missouri and teachs at their med school there. He also participates in various studies on HCV and the liver. He's a very quiet man but my wife and I both just think the world of him. Just was wondering what others have found out about cirrhosis progression and/or what they have encountered with their own cirrhosis. Thanks again!

Terry

Rajah · 10-15-2003, 06:52 AM

Hi terry,
The previous post is correct. All that the liver biopsy can show is if cirrhosis is present. They grade the extent of the cirrhosis by bloodwork. Sounds as though you are at early stage cirrhosis. There is a name for the scoring system of cirrhosis but I can't remember. Try a search on cirrhosis scores and you can get some info on it. With the scoring they give a probable time of life left...or liver transplant. If I remember correctly, at early stage cirrhosis..they give approx 10 - 15 more years before end stage. Not sure though, it's been a while since all my research...been three years since my hubby finished treatment...he was at early stage also. He is currently 3 years virus free now. I wish you the best.

hepperterry · 10-15-2003, 07:53 AM

From what my gastro said this is pretty consistent with him. I asked him once how long he gave me. He said that there was no way he could tell me how long I have to live (respect the man for that) but that when I get into my 50's that I will start having some major problems. I'm 42 now so that is all consistent with his prediction. I kind of expect the same also and my wife and I are preparing ourselves for what lays ahead. I'm now going to counseling to help me deal with my depression and to help me really come to terms with the Hep C and be able to deal with it and to prepare myself for what lays ahead. I know this all sounds fatalistic but I'm afraid I'm a pessimist and not very optimistic on all of this esp since the cirrhosis is progressing pretty quick. Thanks!

Terry