what to know

[oreo2016]

if u have antibodies but all numbers r normal range do i have pbc

[PBCRobert Partner]

To be diagnosed with PBC, we need 2 pieces of information. These 2 pieces come from the following three:

1) Positive antibodies (AMA, or specific ANA )

2) Abnormal liver biochemistry (usually ALk Phos)

3) Positive liver biopsy showing physical signs of cholangitis

Ideally, 1 and 2 will be used to diagnose. Sometimes 2 and 3. Occasionally (as I understand it) 1 and 3.

One piece of information is not enough, according to most recent guidelines (if not all).

[oreo2016 in reply to PBCRobert]

thank u robert

[Nboo in reply to PBCRobert]

Robert, Can PBC be diagnosed with positive AMA(M2) and mildly elevated ALT? (Normal AST and Alkaline Phosphate.) Number 2 here on the diagnostic criteria isn’t super specific as to WHICH LFTs must be abnormal to diagnose PBC without a biopsy. I understand it’s “usually” ALk Phos, but is it part of the diagnostic criteria if it’s not ALk Phos that’s elevated?

[GrittyReads]

Robert is right. You should not be diagnosed with PBC, just because you have the antibodies.

Go and check out the 'PBC Foundation' website - just click next to Robert' name/picture on his post, of google 'PBC Foundation'. Read around on the site, and, if you want, you can talk to the trained advisors via phone or email. Plus, if you join the 'PBC F' you can access even more info and receive the thrice-yearly magazine. There is also a copy of the formal/official 'diagnostic guidelines': this was put together by all leading UK and Euro PBC experts. It is the current, definitive guide to diagnosing PBC properly, and you might want to give a copy to your medics if they are saying you have PBC just because you have the antibodies. However, you do need to check exactly what they have and have not tested you for, and what all your test results say. Ask for copies of all your results and then either come back here if you don't understand, or go back to your Medic and demand a full explanation - but do please read around first.

Sadly, PBC is one of those conditions, where we all have to become our own best experts.

Take care, hope this helps,

Gritty