British Liver Trust

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Absolutely terrified

I have had confirmation of a fibroscan appointment this Thursday and I’m terrified. I know if won’t be painful but I am soooooo worried about the potential findings.

I have a REALLY bad feeling about it for some reason and I keep remembering all the times I’ve been drunk and the impact on my liver.

I was at work and in meetings all day and I have not been able to think about anything. Tomorrow will be even worse I’m thinking I should phone in sick.

What a nightmare

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Liver disease

9 Replies

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Well, whatever the findings are do remember a person can live on even with liver disease. People can live 20 or 30 years even if they have cirrhosis. I was in your shoes a little over a year ago. I have an autoimmne disease called PBC. Diagnosed at stage 3 severe fibrosis. I take pills for it and my health has improved. Even people who have damaged their livers fro alchohol can get better. They have to take really good care of themselves though. Try and be patient waiting for the results. It could be you are not as bad off as you thought. Save your freaking out for when you know exactly what to freak out about.

Best wishes,

Pam

The fibroscan is totally painless as is a bit like, "jelly on the belly" when an expectant mother has a scan. The fibroscan measures the stiffness and firmness of the liver, it can also tell if the liver's enlarged. However the results are rather limited so other tests might be required. A blood test called ELF test with markers would be a good way forward as this is painless and is becoming increasingly popular and more reliable. The ELF test should really be done in place of a liver biopsy, but not all healthcare trusts have this yet, my particular trust has only had it these past six months.

Try not to worry too much, you have two really good things going for you. Firstly, your liver is very forgiving, and can repair it's self. Secondly, you are now in the hands of some very special people who are both understanding and professional. It is their job to help make you well again. Just have faith in these guys and learn to love your liver.

Please let us know how you get on. The test results may take a while to come back as the consultant will need to analysis the data. Tempted as you might, try not to ask the person preforming the test too many questions. While these are trained operators and know what they are doing, a consultant is the one who knows what their looking for and may see things that the operator can often miss. Just be patient and wait for the results proper.

Good Luck

Hi both, thanks for your replies.

I have read lots about the fibroscan and it will be undertaken by the consultant so I should get results immediately.

My bloods and ultrasound have both come back clear so I have been searching to try and find out whether there are examples of people with F2+ or cirrhosis that has only been identified through the fibroscan.

Any thoughts?

Very true Richard. While the operator is qualified to operate the machine they are not qualified to interpret test results.

What if it is the consultant doing the scan?

Cant see that happening ever. That would be like getting your GP to be the one taking your blood samples'

I called the hospital and checked and it is a private consultation and fibroscan with the gastro consultant.

I get that feeling everytime as well. That sinking feeling of doom. But even of its the worst of fears you can live your whole life in good health if you take carw of yourself. That being said lets not jump the gun and keep in mind fibroscans can vary in results. I had mine drop 22 kpa in only 3 months!