question about POST transplant blood test...

There is not much on this test. However it is related to INR and looks for vitamin K deffiency. It looks like just another test to look at clotting factors.

Everton I read said vitamin k but I have not heard of it so was researching it. I very well could be wrong.

PIVKA = Proteins Induced by Vitamin K Absence

The test is a modified version of INR and has been related to an increase risk of liver cancer in patients with elevated levels.

So we are both right, its INR used to help determine chances of liver cancer.

From what little I could find on it, I would venture to say it is not used often.

I know you were looking for someone who has had this test. I just was looking to see what I could find. It does not seem like a common test.

You know someone will respond if they have had it. I read a synopsis on it, oddly it is actually more beneficial for those of Asian descent to have this test as it has a higher correlation the study showed.

@ Syxx...you have been extremely helpful. I very much appreciate you take the time to do that. Have you by chance found information regard it being a reliable test to find HCC in post transplant patients?

@ Mama...yes, she has, but I have never really heard of it and am hoping to hear from someone who has.

@ Syxx...thank you so much! I appreciate it. I am very curious about this test since I have never heard of it before today.

In ur post above you mentioned.
"The test is a modified version of INR and has been related to an increase risk of liver cancer in patients with elevated levels."
Would that be pre or post transplant patients??

Post Edited (Worried daughter2) : 3/4/2014 9:17:56 PM (GMT-7)

@ David...yes, that they are! They are an amazing team!!!

Looks like no difference post or pre transplant. It shows that there is a correlation that higher level results show an increased chance of HCC. Apparently they are starting to use it since AFP is not that sensitive. So if higher levels are shown in PIVKA test then they can do more advanced tests looking for tumors.

The best way to check for HCC is an MRI with contrast.

advanced testing seemed to refer to MRI with contrast or CT. I think they were looking for something more sensitive and would give them indications for imaging.

@ David...is it bc the Mri has no radiation or bc it gives better images versus a CT scan? So far, being less than 1 yr post transplant, she has only had CT scans with contrast. Should I ask them for an Mri instead?

@ Syxx...your saying Mri over CT, as well?

Thanks!!!

@ mamalama...should I be concerned bc all my mom is getting are CT scans with contras, post transplant?
How often does Mike go for scans? My mom is almost 10months post transplant.