Do we PVers (or others with MPN) need liver function tests

[lizk1993]

Hi all, had latest visit at hospital this week and doctor says pleased with how things going and I don't need another blood test or hospital visit for three months, so my poor arm will be getting a rest.

However, letter to doc from previous appointment I'd to have a liver function test and kidney function test as well as my standard FBC before this latest appointment. Was curious and asked haematologist why I needed a liver function test and she said they don't need that, which leaves me feeling confused. Do others in the group have liver function tests too and, if so, do you know why it's checked. Can't seem to find into on this one.

Thanks all

Liz

PS Happy New Year to all, here's hoping we all stay well.

[Superwoman]

Hi Liz, think it cold be a way for them to check your ( BUN ) blood, urea, nitgrogen, and creatinine levels are OK and to make sure that your liver an kidneys are functioning properly if there are low levels it means they are not doing their job. Think it is also to make sure that the toxic drugs we take are not doing any damage to the liver and kidneys.

I have this done every so often since being on Hydroxy, and my levels are alright. As long as you drink lots of water and eat well your body will excrete any toxins through you urine providing both your kidneys and liver are functioning well.

I am not a hundred percent sure but think this may be why.

Jean x

[lizk1993 in reply to Superwoman]

Hi Jean, Thanks for replying. Was just curious because thought I'd maybe got it wrong when doc said they don't ask for that. I had been told on the phone that I'd to get it done, so it threw me a bit when she said they don't do it. Not on hydroxy yet, just venesections. I do eat well, but can be a bit haphazard about drinking enough. Definitely a habit I need to get myself properly into.

Liz x

[Roger41 in reply to lizk1993]

I take my hydro at 2pm. I drink after every meal and as soon as I wake up. I have a special glass to keep me on track.

As for a book I have created my own.

Showing my consultant next visit.

[lizk1993 in reply to Roger41]

Thanks Roger, might have to try that.

[Helpatlast]

Yes it's quite normal to have liver and kidney function tested - I do every 4-6 weeks when my bloods are checked and bone too - always have and been on HU 11 years - and always fine too - so don't worry

[lizk1993 in reply to Helpatlast]

HI Helpatlast, Thanks - love this forum, always some kind soul who is willing to help and put my mind at ease.

Liz

[jane13]

yes, probably only annually unless any warning signs

[lizk1993 in reply to jane13]

Thanks Jane, I've had it done at least twice in the 6 months since I've been diagnosed, but having said that do have an ongoing problem with liver/gallbladder, so that may be why.

[francesb]

Hi, I

Every time I have an FBC I also have a " chemistry" test which checks liver and kidneys among other things. So the phlebotomist takes 2 separate lots of blood every time. This is because the drugs we have to take can have an adverse affect on these. Best wishes, Frances

[Wyebird]

Hi, curious, I gags a liver function test relating to a different illness. It flagged up slight damage. I showed it to my haemo he dissmissed it. Saying that their haemo tests where more accurate. I’m gonna ask about it again.

I’ll be interested in your results

[Hidden]

HI Liz I only have my blood test every 6months and I have a standard few. Liver and kidney function are always on the list along with CBC and electrolytes. Oh and LDH!! Just on aspirin have ET. Lyn x

[mhos61]

I don’t have any liver function testing....just full blood count every four months. Before I was put on hydrea I had the full works done and everything was ok.

I did ask the nurse once should I be having liver function test and she said no! Do other people have these tests and furthermore, should I be having them? I’m only on five Hydrea a week. Interesting to hear from others.

Mary x

[lizzziep]

My blood tests vary, sometimes they include liver and kidney functions, sometimes not. I think it's just so then can other things aren't being affected by the drugs/ET.

Lizzie

[Susana7]

I have liver function tests and thyroid tests done twice a year. I am on Pegasys and it can affect these organs, so regular checks are needed. My liver counts are actually slightly elevated, they were already before diagnosis, haemo says I have a fatty liver but is not concerned. Susana x

[EleanorPV]

Yes, I order my liver function test and kidney function test a week before i see my haematologist.