--- In lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com, "Jina" <jjuiliano@s...> wrote:
> Awwwwwwwwww the miracle of life! you go girl. I will be sayin all
> kinds of prayers for you and your lil one.  Many blessings, Jina\

THanks Jina
It wont be long and I will post a picture of my miracle.  I look
forward to meeting some of you again after I have the little munchkin.
Travis I hope you are doing great, miss chatting with ya.

Take care everyone...
Tina-FLorida

Awwwwwwwwww the miracle of life! you go girl. I will be sayin all
kinds of prayers for you and your lil one.  Many blessings, Jina

Hi, I'm from st.paul,mn and been on pegasys treatment since feb. and i
have no one to talk to, i'm 37 swm never been married and am in
hazelden fellowship now for alcohol and drugs but i think i got hep c
through a blood transfusion back in 1991 so i am really interested in
talking to people in my area. thank you so much for reading this, god
bless,
   Doug

-------Original Message-------


Going to have a Baby?! Praying ALL goes Well!
I take it You are not the Average age of most Heppers, that being 50!
You aren't anywhere near 50 and Pregnant...Are YOU?!

I take it You meant Cheery, not Cherry. Only One Person I have ever
heard of being Cherry and Pregnant and that was a Rather Important
Lady in the Bible!

Again...Good Luck Tina and We will all be Praying for You!
Da Rev



Actually I was being sarcastic when I said cherry LOL  You are right.
I dont know who can be this miserable and happy about it LOL
I am 34 weeks & 4 days into a miserably HIGH risk pregnancy.  Baby is
doing well, mommy is old and toughing it out.
It's been a road, I am 37 and have been infertile for 10 years since
my last miscarriage.  It was a shock and scarey being that I have had
HCV for 17 years and Im in stage 4 of cerosis.  God has been good to
us with our baby girl.
Just went to have a 3/4 D sonogram today.  She is so far down and
ready to come out that the pictures stunk but I will post them so you
all can look if you want.  Enjoy!
Tina-Florida

WELL  I wish she were here to show you pictures of her, but this will
have to due LOL
I tried to attach them but i cannot

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/psychocat_lady/album?.dir=4864&.src=ph&store=&prod\
id=&.done=http%3a//photos.yahoo.com/ph//my_photos

I am home finally, they made us wait over 1 1/2 hours for us to get
into the 3-D 4-D sonogram room.  We were in there viewing Jaidyn for
over one hour.  Disappointing as it was (glad I didnt pay)  She is so
far down in the birth canal and in the proper position (finally) that
we didnt get but 2 1/2 way profiles of her face.  When she did move so
we could possibly see her face the little stinker put her hand in
front looking like she was sucking her palm, and no matter how much we
pushed and prodded her she was set not to show us.
SHE HAS HAIR!!!!!!
Her face is FAT. Lovely beautiful lips and a little pudgy nose.  AWWW
My baby is so cute!!!!!
NO CLEFT PALET --- Praise the Lord!!!!
Her tummy has so much fat on it they tech was able to show us where it
was.  She must be fat because her arms and legs were pudgy also!
This is strange, but the 4D sono only showed her as 5 pounds 1 oz at
34 weeks.  Still a little big, but woo hoo, she's not 10 lbs.
Didnt get a girl stuff shot because her legs were crossed at the ankle
and up against her chest.  But I did get that shot LOL
Enjoy the pictures!
Tina, Paul & Jaidyn Alemany

Going to have a Baby?! Praying ALL goes Well!
I take it You are not the Average age of most Heppers, that being 50!
You aren't anywhere near 50 and Pregnant...Are YOU?!

I take it You meant Cheery, not Cherry. Only One Person I have ever
heard of being Cherry and Pregnant and that was a Rather Important
Lady in the Bible!

Again...Good Luck Tina and We will all be Praying for You!
Da Rev


--- In lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com, "Tina" <psychocatlady@g...>
wrote:
> Well Im ready to pop my baby girl out any day now.. so I dont know
how
> cherry I can be ;)
> Tina
>
> -------Original Message-------
>
> From: Jina
> Date: 09/09/05 11:07:02
> To: lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [Lone Star Heppers] not sure!
>
> not sure and I am wonderin the same thing! Jina
>
>
>
>
>
>
> YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS
>
>  Visit your group "lonestarheppers" on the web.
>
>  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
>  lonestarheppers-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com
>
>  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of
Service.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

Well Im ready to pop my baby girl out any day now.. so I dont know how
cherry I can be ;)
Tina

-------Original Message-------

From: Jina
Date: 09/09/05 11:07:02
To: lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Lone Star Heppers] not sure!

not sure and I am wonderin the same thing! Jina






YAHOO! GROUPS LINKS

  Visit your group "lonestarheppers" on the web.

  To unsubscribe from this group, send an email to:
  lonestarheppers-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

  Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to the Yahoo! Terms of Service.







[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

not sure and I am wonderin the same thing! Jina

Just Wondering what happened to Humorous Heppers.
Oh! By The Way! Hi Folks!
Rev.Frank

"Phase I/II Dose Escalation Trial Assessing Tolerance,
Pharmacokinetics and Antiviral Activity of NM283, a novel Antiviral
Treatment for Hepatitis C"

Reported by Jules Levin

E Godofsky reported on NM283, a new HCV drug (polymerase inhibitor),
and the initial clinical study results at the final hepatitis oral
session on May 18 at DDW May 2004 in New Orleans.

Summary: NM283 is orally administered new HCV drug. This is the
first study conducted in HCV-infected patients. About 80 patients
were studied with various doses. Using the highest dose regimen HCV
viral load was reduced by a mean 1.1 log after 15 days of dosing.
Patients were all genotype 1 and interferon failures. Overall the
drug appeared safe and tolerable. GI side effects were seen but were
transient. The next planned study is a 4 week combination study with
peginterferon.

Godofsky said in his talk that >800,000 cases of end-stage hepatitis
C are expected in the USA in the coming decade; similar trend in
Europe. We need high SVR rates with limited treatment duration,
particularly in genotype 1 with >70% in the USA being genotype 1 and
60% in Europe. We need oral, safe and well-tolerated medicines with
treatment for patients with decompensated cirrhosis.

NM283, a novel candidate HCV RNA polymerase inhibitor, has anti-
flavivirus activity that is highly synergistic with interferon-_ in
vitro, and suppresses viremia in chimpanzees chronically infected
with human-derived HCV-1 (Standring, EASL2003). Here we report the
first clinical data for NM283 in humans.

NM283 has EC50 vs BVDV=0.67 ± 0.22 uM; 2'-methyl substituent key to
anti-HCV activity; inhibits virus encoded RNA polymerase- probable
mechanism of action- viral RNA chain-terminator; no activity against
HIV or DNA viruses; valyl ester prodrug provides high oral
bioavailability.

NM107 is the precursor to NM283 and is active in a surrogate mouse
virus model and is synergistic in combination with IFN-a in a cell
based persistent BVDV infection model. In this model BVDV titer log
units/mL was reduced about 1 log by IFN 200 units/mL, about 4 logs
by NM107 8uM, and by 8 logs with IFN 200 units/mL plus NM107 8uM in
12 day experiment (Standring et al EASL 2003).

NM283 inhibited HCV-1 replication in chronically infected
chimpamzees by mean 1.05 log. 5 chimpanzees who were chronically
infected with HCV-1 received oral treatment for 7 days once daily, 3
treatment arms: placebo (1 animal); NM283 8.3 mg/kg/day (7 animals);
higher dose NM283 16.6 mg/kg/day (2 animals). Serum HCV RNA was
quantified by Roche Amplicor PCR.HCV RNA was reduced by 0.83 log
(low dose) and 1.05 log (high dose); no change in placebo chimp
(Standring et al EASL 2003).

NM283 for Hepatitis C: Dose Escalation Trial

--first in man dose escalation trial
--objective is to evaluate safety, antiviral activity and PK during
15 day treatment and 2 week post-treatment follow-up. The patients
were adults with chronic HCV; HCV genotype 1; IFN failures &
treatment-naïve. Serum HCV RNA >5 log IU/mL; ALT <5 x ULN; no IFN in
preceding 6 months; compensated liver disease, no cirrhosis.

Dosing levels: 50-800 mg/day. Each dosing cohort of 12 eligible
patients randomized 10:2 to NM283 vs placebo. The study was held at
6 US sites. All patienys confirmed non-cirrhotic by liver biopsy.

Characteristics of patients: age 47-52; 60-70% men; 90% Caucasian;
90% IFN failures; serum HCV RNA -- 6.6 mean log IU/mL; serum ALT --
64 mean units/mL; cohrt 6 was dose escalated from 100 to 800 mg;
cohort 7 was escalated from 400 to 800 mg + antiematic.

VIRAL LOAD REDUCTIONS AT DAY 15

The placebo group had no reduction.

The dose escalation group 400 to 800 mg + antiematic had mean viral
load reduction of 1.1 log.

The group escalated from 100 to 400 had reduction of 0.8 log.

In cohort 7 individual patient HCV RNA reductions ranged from 0.68
to 1.94 log. One patient had reduction of 1.94 log; 2nd patient's
viral load declined by 1.37 log; three patients had 1 to 1.2 log
reductions.

SAFETY & TOLERANCE

Godofsky reported clinical safety satisfactory overall: no serious
adverse events or dose limiting toxicities; all 68 compliant
patients completed treatment; 1 patient (400 mg group) discontinued
for non-compliance. No grade 3 or 4 lab abnormalities during
treatment; no pattern of lab abnormalities.

GI side effects in some patients (typically transient nausea; total
of 5 patients with vomiting): seen primarily at doses >=400 mg/day;
23 of 26 nausea events rated "mild", 3 "moderate"; most with onset
in first 2 days; <1 day duration in 62% of affected patients; 5/14
(36%) placebo patients with miscellaneous GI complaints. Godofsky
said overall side effects favorable compared to current treatment.

Godofsky concluded: there was consistent antiviral activity in
patients, 87% of whom previously failed IFN; increased antiviral
activity with each higher dose: HCV RNA reductions after 15 days
treatment was --0.15 to 1.1 log IU/mL in completed cohorts; 1.1 log
viral load reduction equals 92% viral load reduction in 2 weeks; in
highest dose cohort, 9/9 previous IFN failures exhibited HCV RNA
responses (0.7-1.9 log: 79-99% HCV RNA reductions in individual
patients over 2 weeks); 800 mg/day cohort ongoing, will be highest
dose tested; overall safety satisfactory: no dose limiting
toxicities, transient nausea & vomiting in some patients, all
compliant patients completed treatment.

The next planned study is a 4-week combination trial of NM283 and
peginterferon.

Hi!  I just joined and thought I would introduce myself.  My name is
T.J. I also live in Texas and I am starting my 7th month of Pegasys,
Ribivirin treatment.  I am Type 1 also and this is my second go round
in the last 5 years.  So far my viral level has dropped and all my
levels are back to normal.  Because of low white blood cell count I
constantly have some type of infection.  I would be interested in
talking with anyone who has successfully finished this treatment.

I am in Ft. Worth, Texas am getting ready to move back to Oklahoma, I
wanted to go to Arkansas but, since i take care of my mother (although
she is not an invalid) She said she would go to Oklahoma, Didn't want
to go back to my birthplace (Kansas City) so decided on Bartlesville
this time around. Don't like Texas so much and tired of the heat too.
Family will be closer in Oklahoma than in Texas. I have been a gypsy
all my life it seems, not staying to long in one place. I get restless
real easy. Well I have a lot to do today before it gets to hot so off
to start my day.....Later, Jina

Jina,
Welcome to the group! I am Tina, 37 married with 1 daughter almost 13 and
another girl that's due here in 5 weeks.
I was diagnosed in 88 with non a non b which we all know is HCV now.  I was
inactive for 8 years then I started climbing in numbers and scaring on the
liver.  By 2000 I had stage 2 fibrosis and 2 cerossis.  I now have stage 4
cerossis BUT my liver is functioning awesome, even while preggy my ALT's are
in normal range. I haven't had a viral load done on me in about a year, it's
getting time to do that.  I am on disability, I get too sick when I try to
work.  WIth the new little one coming soon I will have my hands full for
sure.
I tried combo in 2000 but failed at 5 weeks because I got phnemonia really
bad and had to stop. :(
Are you in Florida still? I am in Central Florida.  Will be nice getting to
know you!  Again, Welcome to our group





-------Original Message-------

From: Jina
Date: 08/19/05 18:43:18
To: lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Lone Star Heppers] Hi All!

I am Chronic Active Hep C, 1a, last check  1 1/2 yrs ago my viral
load was 1.8 million, up from 180,000 from the time I stopped tx,
When I started tx I was 380,000 too low to go on tx but doc thought
other wise and wanted to get it before it got me oooooo wellllll. The
only symtoms I have @ this time , If I spend too much time out in the
sun I usually sleep all the next day,and my lower back hurts all the
time unless I take a few advils, sometimes I have chronic fatigue
sometimes not. I do take an anti-d but I take it more for my
menopausal mood swings than anything else and it also cuts down on my
hot flashes, lol, doesn't really do anything for the incrediable
amounts of sweat i produce but then again it is summer in Texas and
we all know how that can be.

I got Hep C from making unwise decisions when I was younger.A friend
had Non A Non B Hep (before they put a name to Hep C ) and as they
say the rest is history. But with all the new data out there I could
of gotten it from drinking and taking large amounts of Tylenol and
Tylenol PM, or I could of gotten it from when I was giving birth to
my youngest daughter @ Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida it
was kind of nasty in the delivery room. But at any rate it could of
been any where anytime any way if you want to know more feel free to
ask, Don't have nothing to hide.         Jina









[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]

P.S. 3 yrs. ago:  Mild Fibosis <sp.  ..........Jina

I am Chronic Active Hep C, 1a, last check  1 1/2 yrs ago my viral
load was 1.8 million, up from 180,000 from the time I stopped tx,
When I started tx I was 380,000 too low to go on tx but doc thought
other wise and wanted to get it before it got me oooooo wellllll. The
only symtoms I have @ this time , If I spend too much time out in the
sun I usually sleep all the next day,and my lower back hurts all the
time unless I take a few advils, sometimes I have chronic fatigue
sometimes not. I do take an anti-d but I take it more for my
menopausal mood swings than anything else and it also cuts down on my
hot flashes, lol, doesn't really do anything for the incrediable
amounts of sweat i produce but then again it is summer in Texas and
we all know how that can be.

I got Hep C from making unwise decisions when I was younger.A friend
had Non A Non B Hep (before they put a name to Hep C ) and as they
say the rest is history. But with all the new data out there I could
of gotten it from drinking and taking large amounts of Tylenol and
Tylenol PM, or I could of gotten it from when I was giving birth to
my youngest daughter @ Jackson Memorial Hospital in Miami, Florida it
was kind of nasty in the delivery room. But at any rate it could of
been any where anytime any way if you want to know more feel free to
ask, Don't have nothing to hide.         Jina

Jina

We are glad to have you aboard. Wonders which tx you were on 3  yrs
ago. So are you having any symptoms these days. Do you know which
genotype you are? So how do you think you got you hcv?


Bd

--- In lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com, "Jina" <jjuiliano@s...> wrote:
> Hi ya all new to group but not Hep C.....was on tx for about 4 mths,
> stopped due too sides (which was horrendous) that was 3 yrs ago in
May,
> now I haven't any insurance so I don't even go to the doc's anymore
to
> get checked. Figured that I had it before I even knew about it and
now
> that I know, I guess I'll carry it with me for the rest of my life,
> however long or short it is. But I think I'll be ok. Any way just
> wanted to introduce myself.  Later.....Jina

A Phase 1 Study of Tarvacin in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis C
Virus Infection

This study is currently recruiting patients.
Verified by Peregrine Pharmaceuticals August 2005

Sponsored by: Peregrine Pharmaceuticals
Information provided by: Peregrine Pharmaceuticals
ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00128271


  Purpose

The purpose of this study is to determine the safety and
tolerability of Tarvacin when administered via a vein as a single
infusion and to examine how Tarvacin behaves in the body and how it
effects the amount of hepatitis C virus in individuals with chronic
infection.
Condition  Intervention Phase
Hepatitis C
   Drug: Tarvacin
  Phase I


MedlinePlus related topics:  Hepatitis C


Study Type: Interventional
Study Design: Treatment, Non-Randomized, Open Label, Uncontrolled,
Single Group Assignment, Safety Study

Official Title: A Phase 1 Study of Chimeric Anti-Phosphatidylserine
Monoclonal Antibody (Tarvacin) in Patients Chronically Infected with
Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) Who Are Non-Responders or Relapsers After
Treatment with Pegylated Interferon Plus Ribavirin

Further Study Details:
Primary Outcomes: adverse events; laboratory evaluations; human anti-
chimeric antibody; pharmacokinetic analysis; viral kinetic analysis
Expected Total Enrollment:  32
Study start: August 2005


Hepatitis C virus(HCV) infection is a world wide public health
concern and is the most common chronic bloodborne infection in the
United States and the leading indication for liver transplantation.
Laboratory and animal studies have demonstrated that Tarvacin binds
viruses and virally infected cells and prolongs survival in infected
animals. This study will examine the safety and tolerability of
Tarvacin when administered to patients with chronic HCV infection
who do not respond to or relapse after treatment with pegylated
interferon plus ribavirin combination therapy. Groups of patients
will be treated with escalating doses and followed for 12 weeks.
  Eligibility

Ages Eligible for Study:  18 Years and above,  Genders Eligible for
Study:  Both
Criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

At least 18 years of age
Chronic hepatitis C infection based on history and detectable serum
HCV RNA
Documented failure to respond to or relapse after treatment with
pegylated interferon and ribavirin combination therapy
Adequate hematologic function (ANC greater than or equal to 1,500
cells/uL, Hgb greater than or equal to 12 g/dL in females and
greater than or equal to 13 g/dL in males, platelet count greater
than or equal to 100,000/uL and less than or equal to 500,000/uL)
Adequate renal function (serum creatinine less than or equal to 1.5
mg/dL or calculated creatinine clearance greater than 60 mL/min)
Normal coagulation profile (PT/INR and aPTT within institutional
normal limits)
D-dimer within institutional limits
Female patients of childbearing potential must have a negative serum
pregnancy test at prestudy and all patients of reproductive
potential must be willing to use an approved form of barrier method
contraception
Exclusion Criteria:

Prior exposure to any chimeric antibody
Any other cause of liver disease other than chronic hepatitis C,
such as autoimmune or alcoholic liver disease
Decompensated clinical liver disease or cirrhosis
Any evidence of clinically significant bleeding
Known histroy of bleeding diathesis or coagulopathy
Any history of thromboembolic events including central venous
catheter-related thrombosis
Any evidence or history of a hypercoagulable state (eg, elevated d-
dimer or shortened aPTT)
Concurrent therapy with oral or parenteral anticoagulants
Concurrent hormone therapy (ie, estrogen contraceptives, hormone
replacement, anti-estrogen)
Antiviral therapy within 90 days of day 0
Investigational therapy within 4 weeks of day 0
Major surgery within 4 weeks of day 0
Uncontrolled intercurrent disease
Any history of angina pectoris, coronary artery disease or
cerebrovascular accident, or transient ischemic attack
A history of any condition requiring anti-platelet therapy with the
exception of general cardiovascular prophylaxis with aspirin
A history of any condition requiring treatment (past or current)
with coumarin-type agents
Cardiac arrhythmia requiring medical therapy
Serious non-healing wound
Requirement for chronic daily treatment with NSAIDs, anti-platelet
drugs (eg, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, adenosine diphophate
receptor antagonists), or steriods
A disease or concurrent therapy know to cause significant alteration
in immunologic function
Known HIV or active HBV infection
  Location and Contact Information

Please refer to this study by ClinicalTrials.gov identifier
NCT00128271

Karen Roberts, MS      714.508.6035    kroberts@...


Florida
       Bach & Godofsky, MD, PA, Bradenton,  Florida,  34205,  United
States; Recruiting
Mickey Mays, RNMS, ARNP  941-746-2711  Ext. 39
Eliot W Godofsky, MD,  Principal Investigator

  More Information

Please visit StatusCunknown.com for news coverage updates
of LOLA's March to City Hall and personal accounts of those
who attended the events.

StatusCunknown.com

Thank you and enjoy our site!

Shari Foster
Founder

Hi ya all new to group but not Hep C.....was on tx for about 4 mths,
stopped due too sides (which was horrendous) that was 3 yrs ago in May,
now I haven't any insurance so I don't even go to the doc's anymore to
get checked. Figured that I had it before I even knew about it and now
that I know, I guess I'll carry it with me for the rest of my life,
however long or short it is. But I think I'll be ok. Any way just
wanted to introduce myself.  Later.....Jina

Hi ya all new to group but not Hep C.....was on tx for about 4 mths,
stopped due too sides (which was horrendous) that was 3 yrs ago in May,
now I haven't any insurance so I don't even go to the doc's anymore to
get checked. Figured that I had it before I even knew about it and now
that I know, I guess I'll carry it with me for the rest of my life,
however long or short it is. But I think I'll be ok. Any way just
wanted to introduce myself.  Later.....Jina

If you're going to Minnesota HepFest this year, and you are planning on
bringing kids, please keep them away from the over-the-road truck
driver from Little Falls Minnesota, as he is a pedophile.  I know,
because I befriended him and he ended up hitting on my 12 year old
son.
http://www.tigerhawktalk.com/michaeldecorsey.html


Colleen

If you want some humor to get you through hepatitis C, treatment, etc.,
you're welcome to also join Humorus Heppers.

http://groups.Yahoo.com/group/HumorousHeppers


Colleen Morse

Hi, I have to dump this email address and messanger name today
(tuesday) . Look for me under the new name.

psychocat_lady@...

Change me on your messangers if you have me please
Tina

Funny how the body reacts to this test. With stage 4
cerosis from HCV I have liver enzines within normal
range.

Tina


















__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Tired of spam?  Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around
http://mail.yahoo.com

NAME AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein)
NORMAL RANGE 0-8.9 ng/ml
DEFINITION This is a protein that is often used as a tumor marker
for liver cancer. AFP is not normally present in healthy adults,
other than pregnant women.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels may mean active liver disease. This test is also
used for detection of liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).




NAME Alb (Albumin)
NORMAL RANGE 3.3-5.2 mg/dl
DEFINITION This is the major protein in the blood made only by the
liver. It makes up the largest part of the total protein level. It
maintains the fluid balance in your body.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT A low level may mean advanced liver disease, because the
liver is not able to produce the normal amount. Low levels may also
be due to malnutrition, kidney disease or bowel and intestinal
disease.




NAME AlkP (Alkaline phosphatase)
NORMAL RANGE 40-125 U/L
DEFINITION Also known as Alk Phos, this is an enzyme made in the
liver's bile ducts, and in bone, kidney, and intestine.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels mean more advanced liver disease, especially
problems with the liver's bile ducts. Levels can also be high if
there is bone disease.




NAME ALT/SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
NORMAL RANGE 7-56 U/L
DEFINITION This is an enzyme made in liver cells. If liver cells are
damaged or die, ALT leaks out into the bloodstream.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT This is the most important test to follow in a person with
liver disease. A high ALT may mean a high degree of liver cell
damage. However, ALT levels can also vary, and do not always reflect
the degree of liver cell damage. A liver biopsy may give the most
accurate information about the extent of liver damage. The ALT
enzyme is a more accurate marker of liver damage than the AST
enzyme. One goal of treatment for hepatitis C is a normal ALT level.




NAME Antibody
DEFINITION This is a protein developed by your body that protects
you from an antigen. There are 3 common antibody tests (see below).


NAME Anti-HBs (hepatitis B surface antibody)
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT If this test is positive, you have antibodies against the
hepatitis B virus. These are either from past exposure to hepatitis
B or from receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. You are likely to be
immune (or protected) against the hepatitis B virus.


NAME Anti-HBc (hepatitis B core antibody)
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT If this test is positive, you have developed an antibody to
the core of the virus and have been exposed to the hepatitis B
virus. You may be currently infected, were infected and fought it
off, have chronic infection or a false positive test.


NAME Anti-HCV (hepatitis C antibody)
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT If this test is positive, you may be infected with hepatitis
C virus. This test does not tell whether you were exposed and fought
off the infection, have chronic infection or if it is a false
positive test. Another test called RIBA (recombinant immunoblot
assay) may be used to confirm the hepatitis C antibody test result.






NAME Antigen
DEFINITION The antigen is the part of the virus that signals your
body to protect itself.




NAME AST/SGOT (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
NORMAL RANGE 5-35 U/L
DEFINITION This is an enzyme made in liver cells, similar to the
ALT. It is also made in muscles, and can be released from damaged
muscle, heart, kidney, and brain tissue. Therefore, the AST level
can be affected by many conditions other than liver disease.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Elevated levels can mean liver damage. Often the AST and ALT
levels will elevate at the same time.




NAME Basophils
NORMAL RANGE 0.01-0.20 K/ƒl
DEFINITION These are white blood cells that are similar to
neutrophils.




NAME CBC (Complete Blood Count)
NORMAL RANGE See specific tests: RBC, Hgb, HCT, WBC, Platelets
DEFINITION A CBC tests for all the blood cells, including red blood
cells and the different types of white blood cells.




NAME Cholesterol
NORMAL RANGE Healthy levels of cholesterol vary depending on the
risk of heart disease and other medical factors. mg/dl
DEFINITION Cholesterol is synthesized in the liver. It helps to
build hormones, vitamins and cell membranes.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels of cholesterol are associated with
atherosclerosis and heart disease. Low levels are a marker of poor
liver function.




NAME CREAT (Creatinine)
NORMAL RANGE 0.6-1.4 mg/dl
DEFINITION This is a breakdown product of creatine phosphate, which
is a protein found in muscle. It is made entirely by the kidneys.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Elevated levels usually indicate problems with the kidneys or
renal system.




NAME DBili (Direct Bilirubin)
NORMAL RANGE 0.1-1.0 mg/dl
DEFINITION Direct, or "conjugated," bilirubin is a breakdown product
from hemoglobin that has been further processed by the liver.
Usually, bilirubin is removed from the blood by the liver, broken
down, and sent to the intestines through the bile ducts.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels mean liver damage, or blockage in the ducts
(tubes) of the liver. High levels also cause yellowing of the skin
and whites of the eyes (called jaundice).




NAME Eosinophils
NORMAL RANGE 0.04-0.50 K/ƒl
DEFINITION These are white blood cells that are similar to
neutrophils.




NAME Ferritin
NORMAL RANGE 29-300 ƒg/L
DEFINITION This protein stores iron in the liver.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Ferritin is the primary measure of body iron stores. Very
high levels may mean liver disease or hemochromatosis.




NAME Genotype
DEFINITION The genotype is a mixture of genes within a virus.
Genotypes help determine the genetic character of the viruses, such
as the hepatitis C virus. Currently, there are six known hepatitis C
genotypes.




NAME GGT (Gamma-glutamyltranspeptidase)
NORMAL RANGE 7-64 U/l
DEFINITION This is an enzyme made in the bile ducts. High levels may
mean problems with the liver's bile ducts.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT GGT is a very sensitive test, and can elevate if you use
drugs or alcohol.




NAME Globulin
NORMAL RANGE 1-2.8 g/dl
DEFINITION These proteins and albumin make up total protein.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Levels of these proteins may vary in liver disease.




NAME HBeAg (hepatitis B antigen)
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT If you test positive, you are currently infected and probably
have high levels of hepatitis B virus in your blood. You may be very
infectious to others.




NAME HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen)
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT If you test positive, you are currently infected with
hepatitis B.




NAME HCT (Hematocrit)
NORMAL RANGE 42-52%
DEFINITION This measures the percentage of red blood cells per
volume of blood sample.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Low levels may mean anemia. With anemia, hemoglobin may also
be low.




NAME HCV RNA Quantitative or Qualitative (Hepatitis C Viral Load)
NORMAL RANGE Undetectable in people without hepatitis C or who have
been successfully treated for hepatitis C.
DEFINITION The qualitative test tells whether or not there is any
detectable hepatitis C virus in your blood. The quantitative test
determines the amount of hepatitis C virus in the blood.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT The qualitative HCV RNA test is commonly used to confirm the
diagnosis of chronic hepatitis C. The quantitative test is used
mostly to measure response to treatment. It may also be used prior
to treatment to help estimate the chances that treatment will be
successful. People with very high viral loads may not respond as
well to treatment as those with lower viral loads. The viral load
does not reflect the degree of liver damage or the severity of
chronic hepatitis C infection.




NAME Hgb (Hemoglobin)
NORMAL RANGE 14-18 g/dl
DEFINITION This is a protein portion of red blood cells that carries
oxygen.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Low levels may mean anemia, which is a common side effect of
ribavirin treatment.




NAME INR (International normalized ratio)
DEFINITION This is a system of reporting the results of blood
clotting tests.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT In the INR system, results of blood clotting tests are
standardized so health care providers all over the world are able to
read the results.




NAME Iron
DEFINITION This is a mineral that plays a role in hemoglobin
formation.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Iron Saturated in Blood: Measures overall percentage of iron
in blood. Normal range is 16-60%.
Serum Iron: Measures level of iron in blood and is used to test for
both low iron and iron overload, such as hemochromatosis. Normal
range is 50-150 ƒg/dl.




NAME LYMPHS (Lymphocytes)
NORMAL RANGE 0.8-3.5 K/ƒl
DEFINITION These are white blood cells that produce antibodies to
fight viral infections.




NAME Monocytes
NORMAL RANGE 0.2-0.8 K/ƒl
DEFINITION These are white blood cells that destroy foreign bacteria
and other matter.




NAME NEUTS (Neutrophils)
NORMAL RANGE 2.2-8.6 K/ƒl
DEFINITION These are white blood cells that play a key role in
inflammation, allergic reactions, pus formation, and in destroying
bacteria and parasites.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Low neutrophil can mean infection or inflammation. Interferon
treatment
is associated with low neutrophil levels. Therefore, you must have
adequate (normal or near normal) levels of neutrophils to start
interferon.
The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is the total number of white
blood cells in your blood. If your ANC is below 500/ƒl, you are
at
increased risk of infection.




NAME Platelets
NORMAL RANGE 140-400 /mm3
DEFINITION These are small blood cells that help blood clot when
injury occurs.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Platelets may be low in advanced liver disease or while on
interferon treatment. A low count may increase the chance of
bleeding. Therefore, you must have adequate (normal or near normal)
levels of platelets to start interferon treatment.




NAME Protein, total
NORMAL RANGE 6.0-8.5 g/dl
DEFINITION Total protein includes large particles in the blood made
of albumin and globulins.
EXPLANATION OF TEST
RESULT Low levels of total protein indicate a more advanced stage of
liver disease.




NAME PT (Prothrombin Time)
NORMAL RANGE 9.8-13.8 seconds
DEFINITION This is a measure of the time that it takes for your
blood to clot. Prothrombin is a protein that is changed to thrombin
during clotting.
EXPLANATION OF TEST
RESULT High PT may mean advanced liver disease. It may also be high
if you are taking coumadin (or warfarin) for a heart condition, or
if you have a vitamin K deficiency.




NAME PTT (Partial Thromboplastin Time)
NORMAL RANGE 24.2-36.0 seconds
DEFINITION This is another measure of clotting time.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT In addition to PT, this result shows if blood is clotting at
a normal time. It is higher than normal in people with clotting
disorders or patients on certain medicines, such as heparin.




NAME Quasispecies
DEFINITION When the virus changes and makes copies, it can make
errors. This leads to minor genetic differences in viruses in an
individual infected with a single genotype.




NAME RBC (Red Blood Cells)
NORMAL RANGE 4.7-6.1 /mm3
DEFINITION These are small cells that carry oxygen in the blood.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Lab values show over- or under-production. Low levels may
mean anemia.




NAME RIBA (recombinant immunoblot assay)
DEFINITION This is a more specific test than the hepatitis C
antibody test, that helps confirm a diagnosis of hepatitis C virus
infection.




NAME T3, total
NORMAL RANGE 45-137 ng/dl
DEFINITION T3 is a form of thyroid hormone.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT T3 levels may be abnormal in liver disease.




NAME T4, free
NORMAL RANGE 9-24 pmol/l
DEFINITION T4 is a form of thyroid hormone.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT T4 levels may be abnormal in liver disease.




NAME TBili (bilirubin, total)
NORMAL RANGE 0.1-1.2 mg/dl
DEFINITION TBili is a breakdown product from hemoglobin in old red
blood cells. Usually, it is removed from the blood by the liver,
broken down, and sent to the intestines through the bile ducts.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels mean liver damage, or blockage in the ducts
(tubes) of the liver. High levels also cause yellowing of the skin
and whites of the eyes (called jaundice).




NAME Triglycerides
NORMAL RANGE 10-190 mg/dl
DEFINITION These are fatty substances in the blood.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Triglyceride levels may become high during interferon
treatment. Levels usually return to normal after treatment has
stopped.




NAME TSH (Thyroid Stimulation Hormone)
NORMAL RANGE 0.4-6.0 ƒIU/ml
DEFINITION This hormone causes other thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) to
be produced. Thyroid hormones help the body function, and metabolize
foods.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT High levels of TSH are associated with interferon treatment
and hypothyroidism.




NAME WBC (White Blood Cells)
NORMAL RANGE 4.8-10.8 /mm3
DEFINITION This test measures the overall number of white blood
cells. There are five types of WBC: neutrophils, eosinophils,
basophils, monocytes and lymphocytes. Each of them does slightly
different jobs. All of them are used for fighting infections.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT Low WBC may mean bone marrow depression, a common side effect
of interferon treatment. Low levels can also be caused by reactions
to toxins, or to the presence of a virus.

NAME ALT/SGPT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
NORMAL RANGE 7-56 U/L
DEFINITION This is an enzyme made in liver cells. If liver cells are
damaged or die, ALT leaks out into the bloodstream.
EXPLANATION
OF TEST
RESULT This is the most important test to follow in a person with
liver disease. A high ALT may mean a high degree of liver cell damage.
However, ALT levels can also vary, and do not always reflect the
degree of liver cell damage. A liver biopsy may give the most accurate
information about the extent of liver damage. The ALT enzyme is a more
accurate marker of liver damage than the AST enzyme. One goal of
treatment for hepatitis C is a normal ALT level.

Hepatitis B Coalition/Immunization Action Coalition
1573 Selby Avenue, Suite 234
St. Paul MN 55104
(651) 647-9009
Fax: (651) 647-9131
Email: admin@...
Internet: www.immunize.org
Mission: To promote hepatitis B vaccination for all children from
birth to 18 years of age, HBsAg screening for all pregnant women,
testing and vaccination for high-risk groups, and education and
treatment for people who are chronically infected with hepatitis B.
The Hepatitis B Coalition is a program of the Immunization Action
Coalition. The coalition works to increase immunization rates and
prevent disease and promotes physician, community, and family
awareness of and responsibility for appropriate immunization of
people of all ages against all vaccine-preventable diseases.
Materials: Semi-annual publications--NEEDLE TIPS and the Hepatitis B
Coalition News and Vaccinate Adults!; a free email news service--IAC
Express; other materials--brochures for patients in a number of
languages, print materials for clinic staff, videotapes, posters,
materials for various ethnic populations.

Hepatitis B Foundation
700 East Butler Avenue
Doylestown PA 18901-2697
(215) 489-4900
Fax: (215) 489-4920
Email: info@...
Internet: www.hepb.org
Mission: The Hepatitis B Foundation is a nationally recognized,
voluntary nonprofit organization dedicated to the cause and cure of
hepatitis B. We are committed to raising public awareness, promoting
prevention, providing information and support, and funding focused
cure research.
Materials: Newsletter--B-Informed; brochures--The Hepatitis B
Foundation Cause for a Cure, Someone You Know Has Hepatitis B,
Protect Yourself and Those You Love Against HBV, What Hepatitis B
Carriers Should Know, and The First Loving Act--Vaccination; fact
sheets--Advice to Parents of Children With HBV and Hot Sheet with
current hepatitis B virus research, telephone numbers, and a medical
glossary; directory--National Directory of Liver Specialists; video--
Someone You Know.

Hepatitis Foundation International (HFI)
504 Blick Drive
Silver Spring MD 20904-2901
1-800-891-0707
(301) 622-4200
Fax: (301) 622-4702
Email: hepfi@...
Internet: www.hepfi.org
Mission: To provide education, training programs, and materials for
the public, patients, educators, and medical professionals about the
diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of viral hepatitis; support
research to find cures; provide a telephone support network for
patients, a toll-free hotline in the United States and Canada, a
database of hepatitis support groups, and a website with information
in multiple languages.
Materials: Information sheets--Caring for Your Liver; Diagnosis and
Treatment; Hepatitis A, B, and C; Hepatitis A and B Vaccination;
Caution! Treating Children With Acetaminophen; Health Insurance;
Helpful Tips for Carriers of HBV; Living With Hepatitis C--Self-Help
Tips; Tips on Coping With Chronic Hepatitis; additional educational
materials; poster--Take Care of Your Liver; brochure--Is Your Liver
Giving You the Silent Treatment?; primers for teachers and parents;
workbook about the liver for children; videos and books; newsletter--
Hepatitis Alert.

I have no idea what genotype I have , I have not had any kind of lab
work done as of yet. I am going to try and have some done in the next
couple of weeks. I am sorry to here that you have a type that is harder
to treat. I did not even know there were different genotypes. I thought
there was just heb a b or c, . Sounds like I definitely need to do some
reading and find out ALOT more information. Thank you all who have
replied, it really does help to know there are others out there who
know about what is going on with me. By the way I live in the Southeast
Houston area of Texas.
Thanks again,
~Renee

Hello Melissa, I too live in Texas, round rock to be precise, near Austin,
and I can say that you need to deal with this. The first best thing you can
do is, if you drink, STOP, or at least cut back. That may take care of your
enzymes right there. Also, what genotype is your Hep C? That is very
important for treatment, hope it is not type one, which is the most
difficult to treat, that is what I have. If you have a different genotype,
then your chances for a cure are much enhanced, please get this checked
first. Find you a good Gastro-Enterolagist, and at least do the basics! Good
luck and God Speed.

Arnold Coley

-----Original Message-----
From: lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
[mailto:lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of m_renee_b
Sent: Thursday, June 02, 2005 10:37 AM
To: lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Lone Star Heppers] Hello

Hi I am new to this web board so I thought I would introduce myself. My
name is Melissa "Renee" (i go by my middle name) and I live in Texas,
but I am from Florida originally. I tested positive for hepatitis c
about 6-7 years ago but have been sort of in denial about it since then
and have never followed up on  any other kind of tests or anything.
Recently a physical showed up my Liver enzymes?? were high and my
doctor wanted me to have some lab work done which I didn't do. I don't
really know why but I just cant seem to get myself to deal with this,
and I keep finding reasons why I should just keep avoiding it. I found
this websight by searching for hepatitis c and texas. I thought it
would be nice to talk to others who have hepatitis c and learn more
about it. When I fiirst found out I had it years ago I went to web md
and made some friends there but then I just got scared and quit having
anythign at all to do with anything or anyone who had anythign to do
with hepatitis. I guess I am pretty good at denial. Anyways if any of
you have some advice for me it would be greatly appreciated. ALso if
there is an active chat here or elsewhere I would love to know about it
so that I could talk to others who know about hepatits c.
Thank you
~Renee






Yahoo! Groups Links

melissa nice to meet you.hep c is part of you time to
deal with it.its not going away.i can help you look up
info.good luck danne
--- lonestarheppers@yahoogroups.com
<melissarbrown@...> wrote:
> Hi I am new to this web board so I thought I would
introduce myself. My
> name is Melissa "Renee" (i go by my middle name) and
I live in Texas,
> but I am from Florida originally. I tested positive
for hepatitis c
> about 6-7 years ago but have been sort of in denial
about it since then
> and have never followed up on  any other kind of
tests or anything.
> Recently a physical showed up my Liver enzymes??
were high and my
> doctor wanted me to have some lab work done which I
didn't do. I don't
> really know why but I just cant seem to get myself
to deal with this,
> and I keep finding reasons why I should just keep
avoiding it. I found
> this websight by searching for hepatitis c and
texas. I thought it
> would be nice to talk to others who have hepatitis c
and learn more
> about it. When I fiirst found out I had it years ago
I went to web md
> and made some friends there but then I just got
scared and quit having
> anythign at all to do with anything or anyone who
had anythign to do
> with hepatitis. I guess I am pretty good at denial.
Anyways if any of
> you have some advice for me it would be greatly
appreciated. ALso if
> there is an active chat here or elsewhere I would
love to know about it
> so that I could talk to others who know about
hepatits c.
> Thank you
> ~Renee
>
>


  DANNE






__________________________________________________
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Hi I am new to this web board so I thought I would introduce myself. My
name is Melissa "Renee" (i go by my middle name) and I live in Texas,
but I am from Florida originally. I tested positive for hepatitis c
about 6-7 years ago but have been sort of in denial about it since then
and have never followed up on  any other kind of tests or anything.
Recently a physical showed up my Liver enzymes?? were high and my
doctor wanted me to have some lab work done which I didn't do. I don't
really know why but I just cant seem to get myself to deal with this,
and I keep finding reasons why I should just keep avoiding it. I found
this websight by searching for hepatitis c and texas. I thought it
would be nice to talk to others who have hepatitis c and learn more
about it. When I fiirst found out I had it years ago I went to web md
and made some friends there but then I just got scared and quit having
anythign at all to do with anything or anyone who had anythign to do
with hepatitis. I guess I am pretty good at denial. Anyways if any of
you have some advice for me it would be greatly appreciated. ALso if
there is an active chat here or elsewhere I would love to know about it
so that I could talk to others who know about hepatits c.
Thank you
~Renee