Pancreatic Cancer???

Dear Dr,
I am terrified!  We have a friend that died last year of Pancreatic Cancer.   I am so concerned that this will happen to me.  After having a bowel movement the other day, I noticed my stools were formed, however the toilet water was clear with a swirl of oil on top.
Of course I am reading on the internet, and have myself scared to death of cancer.

I dont believe I have other symptoms, however I keep checking my eyes to see if they are jaundice!!!  
Can you shed any light on this situation?    I have myself convinced!
Thanks,
Rainie

[Kevin Pho, MD]

If there is concern about pancreatic cancer, an abdominal CT scan can be considered.

Further evaluation can be considered with an MRI or endoscopic ultrasound if there are any findings on the CT scan.

Sending the stool of for analysis and culture can be done to evaluate for malabsorption or infection respectively.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

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

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com

[lynchie]

A related discussion, pancratic cancer was started.