Liver biopsy + updates

[Stephskie2005]

Following on from my post towards the end of last year I am still in a similar position. Various scans continue to show some type of abnormality that the doctors are not sure about, mainly linked to my 'deranged blood test results' and dilated bile ducts ("extra-hepatic bile duct is dilated, measuring 10 mm" which they've said is unusual given my age, 32).

They've been monitoring my blood test results as these have been getting progressively worse - despite reducing alcohol intake/generally living a healthier lifestyle. After my last results came back they brought forward my next review with my consultant at the hospital to discuss the next steps and they've now got me in for a last-minute liver biopsy... tomorrow! Any tips or do's/don'ts?! Feeling slightly apprehensive about the procedure although I know it's fairly quick!

Current levels are; GGT 612, AST 89, ALT 156 and ALP 350.

My other readings that are out of range are; creatinine (low), Immunoglobulin G (high), Globulin (high), total protein (high), ANCA IIF Screen: ANCA Immunofluorescence - positive pANCA PATTERN, and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (low).

They were thinking possibly PBC - but my AMA blood test came back negative, which is good!

Any input ahead of the biopsy is greatly appreciated!

Thanks ☺️

[BritishLiverTrust11 Moderator]

Hello

In addition to replies from forum members, here is some information on liver biopsy from our website:

britishlivertrust.org.uk/in...

Test results vary according to both the individual’s whole health and the laboratory analysing the results and should always be interpreted by the user’s own health care professionals.

We suggest talking this through with your own doctor or health care professional.

Best wishes

British Liver Trust

[Readlots]

Hi Steph, you’ll probably have to lay on your right side for quite a while after the biopsy, so charge your phone or take something you can do laying on your side. Take a drink with a straw. And if you’re sociable ask for a bed where you’ll be facing people to talk to if you lay on your right side. I spent hours facing a wall with no window!

[Stephskie2005 in reply to Readlots]

Ahh these are handy tips to know thank you very much! 😀

[Yellowsydney]

Hi I've had 2 liver biopsy, one through the side and one through my neck - transjugular, neither were painful, had to have 12 hours bed rest after each one due to the risk of bleeding although most people seen to have less. Don't worry about it, doctors will talk you through procedure and it's over in minutes. Take a book or something to occupy yourself afterwards.Hope all goes well

Hilary xx

[Yoghurtfan]

Hi StephskieYour post could have been written by me, I've been in exactly the same boat since January when routine bloods found things were high, although not as high as yours. ( I'm 56)

I've had 4 MRIs, 2 scans and a liver biopsy as they thought liver cancer. What they found was benign liver cysts and an IPMN cyst on the pancreas with bile duct injury.

I've been referred to another hospital now with an appointment in January and having regular MRIs.

I know how you're feeling especially when there are no symptoms but I'm grateful they are on the ball and keeping an eye on me. I'm partial to a glass of red most days but trying to stop this, although with Christmas coming up it's a bit harder.

Good luck with the biopsy, it was uncomfortable for me, but has tobe done, enjoy the few hours rest and takes some magazines.

[RedPoppy2]

Hi! Just wanted to say make sure you use the loo before the procedure, as you will have to stay lying down for 4 hours afterwards (with no getting up to go to the loo). Hope all goes well for you - I found the procedure itself quick and painless, so fingers-crossed you will too!. xx

[Yeali4598]

I have pbc , took from 2018 to 2022 to diagnose it, with all the various medication changes , I also had a biopsy , which was completely pain free, worst part about it was having to lie almost flat for about 8 hrs in hospital, they have to monitor you every 15 mins or so, temp, blood pressure, cos there is a risk of internal issues the first few hrs after biopsy, it's uncommon but good that they keep a check, I suggest, some good books , good playlists and download some boxsets/ films to watch, hope you get some answers soon

[AltAstRaised]

Very curious your diagnosis. I had almost the exact same situation which led to a biopsy as well. Best of luck - it will go fine.

[Stephskie2005 in reply to AltAstRaised]

Thank you and I will keep you updated! What did yours turn out to be or did they still not come to anything conclusive?

[AltAstRaised in reply to Stephskie2005]

Nothing conclusive. Did every test under the sun, but couldn’t find anything. Alt/ast remain slightly elevated and bile ducts reduced in dilation.

[Spiderlass]

Hey steph!

I hope your procedure goes smoothly. Had my biopsy May this year and it was fine. The procedure for taking a sample was very quick, I didn't experience much pain, but I had to lie on my back for 6 hours! Like many have said, charge your phone! I also took a book and some headphones so I could listen to music. I had to prep an overnight bag just incase. Thinking of ya! Best wishes x

[Stephskie2005 in reply to Spiderlass]

Hey thank you! It all went ok yesterday although from all the reading I’d done I was surprised as I only had to lay directly on my side for an hour and then they said I could prop up if I wanted too but I stayed on my side a while as I was too scared to move! Very odd feeling but not as painful as I’d worked it up to be in my head. Then another three/four hours later they let me leave. Last night was uncomfortable but I’m not feeling too bad today 😊 results hopefully in about 7-10 working days although they said with Christmas it may be longer - will keep you all updated!

[Readlots in reply to Stephskie2005]

I’m glad it went well and they didn’t keep you laying down too long. I only felt tender for a couple of days so you should be back to normal quickly.

[AyrshireK]

Hi Stephskie. I see you reporting that your Alpha-1 antitrypsin is low. Have they actually done the necessary tests to check for a genetic condition called Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency which can cause both liver and lung problems.

[Stephskie2005 in reply to AyrshireK]

Hello,

No I do not think so yet. It flagged on a blood test as low and there was a note on the result saying

"Low alpha-1 antitrypsin. We recommend alpha-1 antitrypsin phenotyping on this patient (if not previously carried out)."

I'm not quite sure what that is/how its done/differs from the blood tests but I'll add that to the list to mention the next time I speak to the consultant!