RUQ Abdominal and back pain - scared about pancreatic cancer

[sfish]

I am 41yo w female, 5'8 122lbs in good health with RUQ pain since Feb along with mid/upper back pain on R and also sometimes in the middle and L. Pain intermittent; not severe (4/10) but is there most days. Not a radiating pain; sometimes it is in abdomen, sometimes in back, sometimes in both. Sensation is of something hard behind/just below right rib cage/liver. Appetite ok but weight loss of about 8lbs in two months, could be anxiety. Stools ok but occaisonally paler brown and looser. Had recent abdominal US, abdominal/pelvic CT scan w/constrast, gallbladder study (51% ejection), endoscopy and colonoscopy.  Abd US showed contracted gallbladder w/fasting; all other results were normal.  Bld work normal, incldg liver enzymes and lipase. CA 19-9 normal, but CEA was elevated (5.3 and test limit was 2.5 - I don't smoke). I am very concerned about the pain and elevated CEA. Dr. seems to think he has ruled out all GI causes. Could endometriosis or a breast fibrodenoma(sp?) cause the elevated CEA or what could?  Wouldn't a pancreatic tumor big enough to cause pain in abdomen and back be seen on a CT scan?  What should they be looking at/for now and what can you tell me that will ease my mind about pancreatic cancer?  Grandfather diagnosed with it, but not til his 80s; uncle on same side has had pancreatitis, but no other family history.  No meds, except Prevacid for past 2 weeks; couple glasses of wine on wknds.; smoked in college but haven't in over 12 years.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

You have had a pretty comprehensive examination for your symptoms.  Many of the major causes would have been ruled out with the tests you have had.  

An elevated CEA can be suggestive of colon cancer, however it is not 100% specific for the disease.  The colonoscopy is the more extensive test, and if negative, makes colon cancer less likely.  

The CT scan would appropriately evaluate the pancreas.  If the pancreas continues to be suspected, an MRI or endoscopy ultrasound can be considered.  I would also obtain pancreatic enzymes like amylase or lipase.

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_

[Fairy1]

I have had the same tests and all are normal with the same symptoms are you are having. Upper stomach pain coming out my back. The Dr said he has ruled out all Gastro issues. So I am at a loss too.  I am also concerned about my pancreas too. Tow Uncles dies of Pancreatic cancer. Also worried about Chronic Pancrestitis. They have told me that it is not my Pancreas. If it is not that what the hell is it? Let me know if you get any answers or further testing.
Fairy 1