Results

So I just got the call from Lucy's GI, Dr G, about her biopsy and blood work results.
First, her labs showed that she was pretty anemic and needs to take an iron to supplement. This is the first time that's ever come up and as a matter of fact back in July she was not anemic. I had a feeling this was an issue though because her face is very pale and she bruises pretty easily. We are going to have to hunt for a supplement that is elemental, like her formula, which may prove to be a challenge.
Second, her biopsies did not show elevated eosinophils which means that her body IS NOT reacting to her formula!!! HUGE sigh of relief! This means no modular nutrition necessary! Yay!
However, her biopsies did reveal that her intestines are healing from something. He said possibly a virus that hung around way too long and ravaged her system, or a bacteria or something that shouldn't be there but there is no way to know for sure because the biopsies didn't reveal that anything was actually there- just that her intestines were trying to heal from whatever it was.
We discussed Lucy's feedings and where we were at quantity wise. Her weigh in at the hospital was just 24 lbs even, which is very poor. Lucy is still struggling to hold onto a solid 20 ounces per day without feeling sick after eating. Its very hard to stay on an all liquid diet and pack in the quantity necessary to grow and thrive- its the reason MANY kids on an elemental diet end up with a G-tube.
The plan for now is to return to our pediatrician every couple of weeks for a weight/length check to see if Lucy will begin to pick back up once her intestines fully recover. In January we will meet with Dr G again and if her weight remains poor we will put in a G-tube to supplement her feedings at night with a slow feed. Dr G said this is a very common practice and not something to be afraid of- sort of an expected path for a kiddo like Lu.
For now I am pleased we are keeping our Neocate, relieved not to have to go modular, nervous about Lucy's weight, and eager to get her happy and comfortable again no matter what it takes- G-tube or not.
Thank you all for so faithfully checking in for Lucy's results!!! We appreciate all the love and support!