Can cholestasis be diagnosed without taking bile salt levels?
Patient: had some blood tests done for my liver as have some red blotches on my chest appear since ive been pregnant.  At 32 weeks my ALT levels came back at 55, i had some more blood tests on saturday at they are not 111.  I have had a liver scan today, a consultants appointment tomorrow and more bloods on wednesday.  They have diagnosed me with Cholestasis.  Is this something that can be diagnosed without having the bile salt levels done?  I am now 35 weeks and want to push for an induction around 37 - 38 weeks. Doctor: hi.to answer your questions, yes, cholestasis can be diagnosed even without bile salt levels examined. ultrasound is a diagnostic tool with a high sensitivity for diagnosing hepaticopancreaticobiliary tree concerns.. additional diagnostics (such as ct-scan, blood exams) will be recommended as needed. if you're not experiencing any symptom related to it, an elective cholecystectomy (surgical removal of gallbladder) may be done after you give birth. you will be advised accordingly if you consult with a doctor, preferably a general surgeon, re your cholestasis. low fat diet is also advised for now.hope this helps.good day!!~dr.kaye