SLE & Lupus Nephritis, now liver problems

[MOOG144]

Hi Everyone

Just looking for advise or even a bit of reassurance....

So currently on steroids and imunosuppresants and 6 monthly doses of rituximab for SLE & Lupus Nephritis.

Saw my Nephrologist last Monday who was concerned that my Liver function result has been 'off ' for the last 5 years and getting worse and asked if it had ever been investigated.

They haven't but unsure if this is something anyone else has suffered with and should I be worried.... all I can think is great another bloody specialist to deal with.

Doctors are referring me to a Heptologist but no idea how long it'll take.

Any info gratefully received

Xxx

[Hidden]

Liver function will probably mean tweaking the immunesuppression you are on as these can be harsh on the liver. I know it’s a bit of a nightmare having to see a new specialist but they are probably best placed to advise on which of your medications might be affecting your liver.

[Kate-L]

I agree with 'Twitchytoes' that it may well be your meds and this needs to be discussed with your Dr. I'm an SLE patient and had liver problems about two years ago - turns out it was my gallbladder playing up and I had to have this removed. After this was done my liver results went back to 'normal' and I haven't had any problems since. I wish you well.

[Chanpreet_Walia LUPUS UK]

Hi MOOG144,

The following information has been taken from The Lupus Encyclopedia about lupus and the liver:

Liver blood test abnormalities are very common in people with lupus. Around 25% of people who have SLE have an enlarged liver, referred to as ‘hepatomegaly’.

The most common reasons for liver abnormalities in lupus patients are chronic inflammation, medication side effects, severe malnutrition, dehydration and lupus hepatitis. Liver enzymes are usually elevated due to medication side-effects from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, alcohol use or fatty liver.

Please let us know how you get on, wishing you all the best.

[MOOG144]

So a quick update... saw the Heptologist, I have either non alcohol fatty liver disease or fibrosis of the liver. Basically was told either way until my liver fails nothing to be done but reduce weight, reduce cholesterol and drink a minimum of 2 cups of coffee a day to slow the liver disease down.

Got an ultrasound coming up but the Heptologist doesn't want to see me until I start showing signs of liver failure....

Wonderful...

Just another thing to worry about

Xxx