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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Could this be a bile duct condition?
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
KevinMD.com
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Could this be a bile duct condition?
by Lizzie1308, Aug 23, 2006 12:00AM
I am 52yr old female, my GB was removed 30 yrs ago. Four months ago I was admitted to hospital with severe tearing pains in mid upper abdomin (abdomen), GP thought it was a stone on the move. Blood tests showed my ALT 3.5 (Doctor seemed to think I drank a lot)I only take alcohol on rare occasions. The pain was treated with morphine and I was sent home after 5 days. Since then I have not been able to function. My mid upper abdomin (abdomen) is very sore and after exercise,(walking) I am in terrible pain across my upper abdomin (abdomen) and down the left side of my back. My abdomin (abdomen) becomes very hot and my chest and back very red. I have had MRI, CT, endoscopy which have all shown normal bar a hiatus hernia. I had thought that it was a temporary liver dysfunction but everytime I attend the hospital I am having Liver Function Tests which have shown a slightly elevated ALT, but nothing to worry about. I have a long scar on my abdomin (abdomen) and have asked the doctor if scar tissue could be the problem but the concentration still seems to be on my liver. The doctor is now talking about taking me to theatre to do an investigation. Will they be able to see anything that the scans have not shown. Do you think it be a bile duct problem?
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, Aug 23, 2006 12:00AM
, Aug 23, 2006 12:00AM
You have had a comprehensive evaluation of what can increase the liver enzymes. The upper endoscopy can evaluate for various upper GI causes.
The biliary ducts can be investigated. Any blockage or stones there can lead to the symptoms you are describing.
An MRCP or ERCP would be the appropriate tests to investigate this possibility.
If all the tests continue to be negative, specialized tests including a 24-hr pH study, gastric emptying scan or even surgical laparoscopy (as your physician is considering) can be discussed.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
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_
The biliary ducts can be investigated. Any blockage or stones there can lead to the symptoms you are describing.
An MRCP or ERCP would be the appropriate tests to investigate this possibility.
If all the tests continue to be negative, specialized tests including a 24-hr pH study, gastric emptying scan or even surgical laparoscopy (as your physician is considering) can be discussed.
These options can be discussed with your personal physician.
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_
