Anxiety Over My Ultrasound Findings
Has anyone here experienced a similar situation with their ultrasound findings? Recently, I received my results, and it noted some mild scarring that aligns with my previous alcohol consumption history. It’s worth mentioning that I’ve been sober for over two years now. The ultrasound was prompted by slightly increased enzyme levels (AST 42, ALT 55). My physician advised that further lab tests weren’t necessary for another year and scheduled a follow-up ultrasound in six months to monitor a benign hemangioma, assuring me that it hasn’t shown any growth. However, he didn’t mention anything about a note that suggests the possibility of cirrhosis until I requested a copy of the report from the imaging center, which is quite unsettling. I won't be able to speak with my doctor until next Monday, and I’m feeling quite anxious about this whole situation. I initially thought the worst I would face would be Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), stemming from poor dietary choices and swift weight gain over the past few months. The findings from my ultrasound indicate: the liver margins are mildly lobular with a slightly heterogeneous texture, and there is a note about considering cirrhosis. Additionally, there’s an echogenic lesion in the right lobe that measures 9x10x9 mm, likely a small round hemangioma. A follow-up in six months is recommended to ensure there are no changes in its stability.
Answers (1)
6/23/2025, 9:20:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand that receiving ultrasound findings can be quite anxiety-inducing, especially when they suggest possible liver issues. It's normal to feel unsettled, particularly when additional information about potential cirrhosis was not communicated clearly by your doctor. Let’s break down your situation and establish some clear, manageable next steps.
Main Points:
- Understanding Your Findings: Your ultrasound shows mild scarring and changes in liver texture, which can pose concerns but are not definitive for cirrhosis.
- Current Health Status: You've been sober for over two years, which is a positive step in protecting your liver health.
- Next Steps: Focus on lifestyle changes and take care of your mental health until your follow-up with your doctor.
Explanation:
- Mild Scarring and Heterogeneous Texture: These findings often suggest some level of liver damage but do not confirm cirrhosis. Mild scarring can be associated with various factors, including past alcohol use and dietary habits.
- Enzyme Levels: Your elevated AST and ALT levels indicate some liver stress or injury that your healthcare provider is monitoring. It's good that your physician feels comfortable waiting a year for further lab tests, indicating they believe your condition is manageable.
- Benign Hemangioma: The note regarding the hemangioma suggests it's a non-cancerous vascular lesion, and following up in six months helps ensure it remains stable.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Stay Informed: Write down your questions and concerns for your upcoming appointment next Monday. This will help you communicate clearly with your doctor.
- Focus on Liver Health:
- Diet: Prioritize a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Exercise: Aim for regular physical activity to help maintain a healthy weight and improve liver health.
- Manage Anxiety:
- Consider mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or light exercise to help manage your anxiety as you await further information.
- Talk with supportive friends or family about your feelings; sometimes sharing concerns can alleviate stress.
Remember, many liver changes can improve over time with healthy lifestyle choices, and you're on the right path with sobriety. Take one day at a time as you await your follow-up, and know that these findings can often be managed effectively with good care. I encourage you to reach out if you need more support or further clarification!
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Cons: Surgical scar, longer recovery time (7-14 days in hospital) - Duration: 2-4 hours ### Option 3: **Liver Transplantation** - We have been advised this is not necessary as the portal vein is functional and liver health is improving. --- ## SPECIFIC QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER: 1. **With a functional portal vein (6.1 mm) and improving liver function (ALT normalized), is it advisable to pursue endovascular closure as the preferred treatment?** 2. **Despite ALT levels improving, the bilirubin remains consistently high (242). Should this be a cause for concern? Is there a prospect for it to normalize post shunt closure?** 3. **Are the hemangiomas/nodules (11.6×20.7 mm) linked to the shunt? Will they likely resolve following shunt repair?** 4. **How urgent is the proposed intervention? Is immediate action required, or is there flexibility to wait a few months?** 5. **What complications should we be vigilant for during the waiting period?** 6. **Regarding endovascular closure - what is the average success rate for infants aged 7 months? Are there concerns regarding the shunt size (9.9 mm)?** 7. **The measurement of the portal vein has shown improvement from 6.1 mm to 3.9 mm; should this be perceived as a positive sign or a reason for concern?** 8. **Are there special directives (diet modifications, medications) we should consider while awaiting the procedure?** 9. **Post-procedure, how long should we expect it might take for:** - Normalization of bilirubin levels? - Return of stool color to normal? - Resolution of jaundice? - Regression of hemangiomas? 10. **Can you recommend any specialized centers for pediatric Abernethy malformation treatments? We are located in Uzbekistan but are prepared to travel (to Turkey, Russia, South Korea, etc.)** --- ## ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - No family history of hepatic diseases - Pregnancy and delivery were normal - No additional congenital defects identified - Immunizations up to date - No history of bleeding disorders - No signs indicative of encephalopathy - Child is alert and engaged --- **I can supply actual MSCT images and comprehensive lab reports if they would be of assistance.** We sincerely appreciate any insights you can provide. We are striving to make the most informed decision regarding our daughter’s care and highly value expert medical opinions. **TL;DR:** 7-month-old diagnosed with Abernethy Type 2 malformation (9.9 mm portocaval shunt, patent portal vein). Liver functionality is improving (normalized ALT) while bilirubin remains elevated (242). Evaluating options between endovascular coil embolization and open surgery. Seeking expert advice on optimal treatment strategy and timing.