Happy New Year to everybody.
I haven't had a blood test since I was diagnosed with PBC in May, should I ask my doctor for one to give me an idea what's going on, am I better or worse. I am still waiting to go and have an endoscopy/colonoscopy, I can't see my specialist until I have had this, its been so long I will probably need another MRI scan as well, its quite frustrating .
Hi Sandie, yes your doctor should be giving you regular blood tests to monitor your PBC. I would think at least once per year. Have you started taking medication for PBC? My doctor wanted to see me 3 months after starting Ursodiol to see where my blood levels are.
I started taking Urso straight away, but I see Some people take a large dose, I only take 300 mg a day, the doctor as now given me tablets for my itching which helps a bit., only because I asked him., doesn't seem to no very much about PBC.
I believe the Urso dosage should be based on your weight. Can you see a liver specialist instead of this doctor? The PBC Foundation is a good source of information, so perhaps you can be knowledgeable even though your doctor is not. Its scary to have to deal with doctors that aren't familiar with your disease!
They have been seeing me at the hospital once a year.my endoscopy was pretty quick I've never had an MRI. I have never been asked back for blood tests at my GPS. But I have had many symptoms get worse start & health changes & every time something is different the Dr takes blood to check.
Hi Sandie 1 Happy New Year to you as well. May we have a better 2016. I would suggest you go for a blood test before you do the rest
Sandie1. Years ago before my biopsy and ERCP and I first had gastroscope and colonoscopy and MRI. Both showed no signs of liver disease, only the biopsy and ERCP finally confirmed PBC Autoimmune
Hi I was diagnose September this year I have to take tablets and I go back in April. In March I have my bloods done so there ready for my appointment. Maybe you should call the hospital just to check they haven't forgot you. Have a very happy new year.
I was diagnosed in Spain and was given 3 monthly blood test when first diagnosed. Now 4 years on In the UK I have 6 monthly blood test.
Hi Sandie. Happy New Year to you. When first diagnosed in 2011 I had blood tests every three months. I also had an ultrasound scan which is still done annually. I had a biopsy, all good there. I have had three gastroscophys , checking for varices, nothing shown there. I now see my specialist at the hospital once a year but she still gets me to have six monthly blood tests, which she keeps an eye on to check for any differences. I do think the treatment you get seems to differ depending where you are in the country/world. Good luck to you but keep asking questions and seek answers. Eileen x
I always ask my GP to do blood tests for me so I have them ready when i get to see my gastro as he can't be bothered.
I fulfill the role of Patient and educator. Where are you located? I have a lot to say that could be useful. Write me at carolliebs@gmail.com. tell where located. Dr. Carol Lieberman
Hi I have had a blood test on dec 24th one month after starting urso and my next one scheduled for January 21 St. I see consultant in February 2 .
I am seeing GP next week to discuss bloods taken on Xmas eve.
After three months of regular bloods I have to have them taken 3 monthly.
Just had liver scan in November so will discuss this with GP and consultant.
I think you should be asking your GP about regular blood monitoring.
All best for new year x
Can you diagnose early-stage PBC with blood tests only
High white blood cell count
Blood tests for tumor 
More blood tests and sudden death of friend...
