F4 and S3.....what does all that mean?

[marywashere]

My sister, and only living family member, is mid 50's, overweight, and has recently been diagnosed with Stage 4 Fibrosis and S3 Steatosis (sp.?). Our internet searches are so confusing! Life expectancy? We want honest and real, layman term answers! The letter the doctor sent was in all medical terms. Real answers wanted!!!!

[nash2 Partner]

Hi Mary

Those mean cirrhosis and a lot of fat in the liver. An important question is whether she is compensated or decompensated. No one can really tell what life expectancy is. People with those readings have had a short time but others have had years. It is critical to adopt a liver friendly diet and lifestyle immediately. Losing the weight can make all the difference.

Wayne

[marywashere in reply to nash2]

Thank you, she read me the report on the phone and I feel sure she said decompensated, but will verify that. And, she is definitely taking vitamin E and fish oil, starting the diet, and she never was a drinker, so no alcohol is not a problem. We are just confused because the liver specialist doesn’t seem too worried about it and just said he will check her again in 6 months.

[nash2 Partner in reply to marywashere]

It is important to know what tests were used to make that diagnosis also

[brendak079]

Hello, I know this is 2 years old but I just saw your post and I just got the same numbers as your sister and just wondered how she was doing? thanks, brenda