Scary Test: ALP

[TwirlerGirl]

Having a lot of anxiety! With my recent 20 lb weight loss (and still at it, 30 lbs more to go), I asked my GI doc to order bloodwork for an update/progress report of sorts. There was the expected CBC, CMP, GGT, INR, and then I saw the ALP (tumor marker for liver cancer). My brain knows he’s a great Doc trying to cover all the bases, but OMG! I’m trying to stay calm, could use a few good vibes from the forum as I go for these tests. Have an olive oily day, all!

[nash2 Partner]

It is routine to get that since it is a risk factor but ask your doc plenty of questions

[TwirlerGirl in reply to nash2]

Thanks—very calming and so helpful to know it’s routine for NASH.

I’m also talking with my GP to see if I can get off Allopurinol (for gout), as I hope with changed diet/lifestyle I may be able to control uric acid better (but again, significant hereditary factors here). Don’t like what I’ve read about Allopurinol effects on liver. And I learned Synthroid actually makes the liver happy—who knew?

I’ll also be asking for another serum ferritin test, as my levels had gone up (to 777) last year, but no genetic marker showed up, and Docs attributed it to NASH and inflammation. Plant-based diets can bring in lots of iron, so now I’d rather just not eat at all 🙄. Some days I’m only getting 800 calories—this is my fear of eating and doing further damage—-Next stop: a dietitian/nutritionist with relevant training and experience. 👍

Thanks to you and all for listening and understanding 😊

[Moonsts]

Gee,, I need to check on this one. I don't think I've ever had one!

[Moonsts]

What is the full name if this test? I've had an alp test but not one says alp.

[TwirlerGirl in reply to Moonsts]

My typo, sorry, should have said AFP. Good catch, thanks 😊

[Splodge60]

This is also a regular LFT enzyme test for liver damage. Cancer is not usually a foregone conclusion. Try to not panic xx

[TwirlerGirl in reply to Splodge60]

Thanks!