Epigastric Pain, Yellow Stools & Plus Some

Please help! I am experiencing right upper quadrant pain. It occurs intermittently with no discernable pattern. I have had a plethora of blood tests with some results coming back abnormal. I have mild neutropenia/leukopenia, raised vitamin B12 levels and my iron levels have dropped off but still normal. Also I’ve had an upper abdominal U/S scan that detected mild splenomegaly and 3 x small gallbladder polyps; everything else appeared normal. As well as this my stools are loose, yellow and foul smelling. I underwent a complete digestive stool analysis that detected starch and fats as well as some butyrate/acetate/citrate balance issues. I’m lethargic (especially after eating), have dizzy spells and no longer enjoy social interactions. I've also had two early term miscarriages. Please help, what could my ailment be? Infection, Cancer, SOD, Auto Immune, Gallbladder?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the ultrasound, which can evaluate the liver and gallbladder.  

I would also evaluate the upper digestive tract with an upper endoscopy, which can evaluate for GERD, ulcers or inflammation of the esophagus, stomach or small intestine.

Blood tests can also look for H Pylori, a bacteria that may be associated with ulcers or inflammation.  

Loose stools can be caused by various forms of malabsorption, and I agree with the stool studies.  Blood tests can also be done to exclude celiac disease.

More specialized tests can be considered if the aforementioned tests are non-revealing.  One example would be a test looking at the gallbladder ejection fraction.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd

[Kitvix]

I recently has tonsilitis and my epigastric pain also increased. I was prescribed Ceclor and noticed my pain went away. What is the connection?