yellow areas on hands

I already posted a question a few weeks ago and appreciate your answer. I had questions regarding intestinal cancer and back pain.I had colonoscopy a little less than 2 yrs ago.normal. I have been having back pain for two weeks They did MRI of cervical and thoracic spine which are normal However my back pain is lower. No lumbar Mri done. However I fell at work a few days ago and was sent to Emergency Room {I work at a hospital}as per there standard. Xray of pevis and hip and lower spine. Doctor said fine. Would cancer show on regular xray inlumbar spine? My daughter noticed yellowish areas on palm side of hands and when I attempted to wash it off it stays. My question is I had a normal abdomenal (abdominal) cat scan in May. And 2 very recent general panels of blood with liver enzymes all normal. Could these areas be jaundice and where does jaundice usually begin on the body? How does one tell if these areas are jaundice and would any cancers develop so fast that they would not be seen on cat scan in may 2006. Im terribly anxious about all these symptons but I am embarrassed to go to my MD with these areas on my hands. any advice would be appreciated.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Cancer invading the bone may show up on a plain film.  If this is truly suspected, a bone scan or MRI would be needed.  

If the liver enzymes are normal, jaundice is unlikely.  If the CT scan is normal, it is unlikely that there is significant liver or gallbladder disease.  

Although it is possible for colon cancer to arise within two years, the negative colonoscopy would make a new colon cancer less likely.  

I would consider further imaging of the lumbar spine if the symptoms continue.  Repeating the liver enzymes to ensure the bilirubin isn't elevated can be considered if jaundice is suspected.

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 patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_

[jstan]

Recently I have noticed that my hands have turned a yellow-orange. There is an odor associated with it also. I tried to wash it off to no avail. I have been painting with lead based metal primer and industrial strength exterior paint. I'v been fairly careful to wear latex gloves while cleaning paint sprayer and equipment with mineral spirits. I've done this lots of times but this "yellow hands" business is a first. Any suggestions?

[ceadmile]

A related discussion, yellow hands was started.

[milinda52]

A related discussion, yellow palms was started.