PBC with possible AIH overlap. Confused, and impatient.

[Terralynn]

Hey,

This is my first post. Ive never done anything like this, but I feel like there is a wealth of info among this group.

I have recently had a liver biopsy after a long few months of blood work. I have elevated ALT, GGT, IGG3, a positive AMA, and low neutrophils. None of my levels are very high.

The biopsy confirmed that I had stage one PBC, and the tests results from the clinic have suggested an AIH overlap.

I don't get to see my Specialist for a few more weeks and Im very curious how they determine whether or not I actually have AIH. There has been a biopsy, wouldnt they know from looking at that? The specialist did order Hep A, B, and C tests, all of which were negative.

Any info on how they test would be really appreciated.

Many Thanks

[4pjx__]

My experience was that I had the biopsy and it suggests a PBC/AIH overlap they said. I'm waiting for insurance approval to see a heptoligist To see if he agrees. It feels like a bad dream to me. Because I am not sick. I keep thinking someone will pinch me and tell me it's not real. I'm trying to be brave but it's not easy. Best wishes.

-Pam

[witchiegirl]

I think they use a combination of blood work and what the cells look like on the biopsy to determine AIH overlap. I think having positive ANA is a factor in AIH, though it's a factor in other autoimmune conditions such as lupus so not always definitive. I do have a good book that explains this, I am so tired and really just waiting for my bath to heat up! I can have a look tomorrow though.

[Terralynn in reply to witchiegirl]

Hi,

Thank you for your reply. I really appreciate it. I definitely have a positive ANA as well. Interesting.

Enjoy your bath and rest well.

[Becca75]

I have PBC and AiH...

it can seem daunting at first but eventually you can settle in to the routine of all the Meds and I have frequent spots with my specialist and have blood taken every two weeks (for a year now) and have been able to lower my dose of prednisone from the rose I was in when diagnosed (prednisone for the AiH)

[witchiegirl]

Sorry it's taken me so long to return. I wasn't in the tub all this time, honestly!! The book I mentioned I heard about on these threads. It's good on explaining the tests and their implications in various diseases of the liver. A little out of date, and now out of print, but the basics don't date. Title: Hepatitis & Liver Disease- What you need to know. Author: Dr Melissa Palmer. I got a used copy online.

[cfsummerford72]

You wont test positive for Hep A,B, or C. I always test negative but every time I go to ER I get diagnosed with Chronic Hepatitis. When they run the smooth muscle, AST, ALT, GGT, IGG3 I my levels are elevated. My red blood cells have been low for year and my white blood count is high. (Does anyone ever compare this to have AIDS?) It sure it close other than we didn't contract from blood or sex. Back to you, sounds like you have a good team that's on it even before you see a specialist. I went to my PCP and she diagnosed the AIH but then referred me to a Hepatologist. He called me on a Sunday to give the diagnoses. I still have a lot of questions that he hasn't answered. Like what stage am I in? I keep my medical records (have blood work from 2012 showing symptoms) I have had a liver biopsy. Still didn't give more information other than a script with directions to take 500mg 2xtimes daily. I feel someone should look at my other medications to see if they are causing damage. I would like something for the depression, fatigue, and the itching, and oh memory fog. Have you been put on any meds yet or are they waiting on your specialist? Do have any symptoms?

Wish you well,

Connie