Cat Scan and Liver Biopsy Combo

[Magnum]

I found out that the VX-950 trials demand you have a biopsy that is no more than 1.5 years old. What this implies, is that I have to have one ASAP because I'm on the Telepravir trial list to be entered within the next three months.

Here is the interesting point to keep in mind: Because my Abdominal Ultrascan was inconclusive, Dr. Gish has ordered a 4-way Cat Scan. However, I spoke to the Gastro about needing a current biopsy. He said "why not do them both at the same time to save your body from more exposure to radiation". This is a good point.

Remember this: The tech at the lab where they do this test said "we can't do them both at the same time". Well, he's obviously misinformed because I asked him to ask someone higher up the same question. He got back on the phone and said they CAN do them both at the same time.

My dad taught me many years ago to always go to the head. Meaning, never take a "worker's" answer, go to the top, or "supervisor". If I would have left it at the response the dim-witted worker gave me, I would have had to have two test, and be subjected to two tortures instead of one... I rest my case....

Magnum

[HectorSF]

I like the words of wisdom from your dad. Excellent advice. It shows that you are proactive which in life is a good way to gets your needs met. They can only say "no."

Thanks for the "can do" attitude and making things happen for you. That is a lesson we all need to be reminded of now and then.

Hector

[Magnum]

The Ultrasound was "inconclusive", meaning they want to be sure nothing has developed. therefore, the cat scan to make it "conclusive". I personally think some of these test are unecessary and money makers for doctors. I could be wrong...

Magnum

[copyman]

I think i know what you are talking about, it was about tx with non-responders. one of the arms will add telaprevir after SOC for a certain amount of weeks. What I need info on is for  tx naive patients. Take care

[Fl_Gator]

I think that I read some where that they will give peg and riba for a certain # of weeks then add in the telaprevir for a certain # of weeks...wish I could remember where I read that...I want my brain back

[copyman]

Yes I was told the same thing about having a BX within a year for the trial. I will start a new thread with this question but was wondering if you know about another phase of the Telaprevir trial starting in Sept.? I heard something about this trial having a different protocol and possibly no placebo arm. Have you heard anything about this? Thanks and good luck with your tx.

[Fl_Gator]

....I'm in the Vertex trial..my 1st bx was November 2006. Since it had been over a year, I had to have another before starting the trial meds...they did the bx on June 4, I started meds June 13...I didn't get any other scans or tests.

Why are they doing the scans on you?

Gator