Week 15 Update-A Visit to the Gastroenterologist

We went to the gastroenterologist, and he had a much more positive reaction to the RNA level than we did.  He believes that the viral load is probably on its way down- not up.  The doctor said that it doesn't make sense to him that the treatment wouldn't be working now since it worked before.  So he kept Steve on the triple therapy and ordered a new blood test including viral load for week 16.

As far as Steve's hemoglobin count (10.2 at week 12), the doctor suspects Steve is probably anemic again (even though he is taking Procrit).  So he decided to lower Steve's ribavirin from 1200mg a day to 1000mg a day.  The doctor believes that the treatment will still be effective because when Steve originally started the therapy he weighed 25 more pounds than he does now.  Therefore, 1000mg is appropriate for his current weight.

On a different note, I have to give credit to the gastroenterologist.  He always takes his time with us and never minds that I come in with a dozen questions and notes from information that I have gotten off of the internet (mainly from Janis and Friends).  He appreciates the fact that I do the research and doesn't feel that I am trying to second guess him.  In addition, when I told the doctor that Steve was having a hard time getting his test results, he told me to email him if we need anything in the future, and he'll make sure that Steve gets it.