Lab results filtering in.

Ok I just got the call. Funny how fast that came in after my US.
My biopsy is scheduled for the 30th and mild ivy sedation is standard. They wanted to schedule for next week but didn't have anything available with my time schedule. I'm totally fine with waiting another two weeks as I get a little braver. I just looked up the procedure for the clinic and it says sometimes they access it from the back and for some reason that freaked me out. I really don't want to be on my stomach during the procedure.

Chic, glad you have a date for biopsy. No, it wouldn't hurt to wait 2 wks., if that is better for you.

I think David and I and others here stay fairly positive through all the procedures as our desire to be as healthy as possible outweighs any fears, etc. We just go with the flow.

Hugs,
Connie

Connie's right. At some point, you have to realize that the tests need to be done. If you go in thinking it's going to be bad, it probably will be. Docs and nurses will do things that will hurt you. It's not because they're sadists. If they didn't do what needs to be done, in a direct manner, they can't help you. When I'm screwed up, please fix me, even if it hurts.

How do I stay positive? I trust my docs and I always believe that I'm going to be fine. So far, it's working.

We're just a couple of happy Hebes...

The intial Ultrasound looked good. Nothing was detected but they still want to do the biopsy because of the blood work. Do you think that this was caught early and that's why no damage was detected? What are the looking for specifically with the biopsy?

Chiccam

As well as cirrhosis a biopsy can pick up early fibrosis. But also there are some specific changes to the liver cells that can help point to AIH/PBC/PSC or not. Its fascinating stuff!

You asked about my thyroid antibodies. To be honest I really can't remember what type they were. They tested me as part of my work up for possible AIH and it was a long time ago. That showed I had antibodies against my thyroid, that my TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone?) was high but my T4 and T3 were normal. So my body was working a bit harder (the raised TSH) to produce normal levels of thyroid hormones. They said that as long as my T4 and T3 were normal no treatment was needed. Of course the immunosuppressants I have been on will work to address this problem as well so they just monitor my T4 and T3 annually now.

My first biopsy with no sedation was really a piece of cake as well. I am not sure there is any rhyme or reason to it!

Ann