Ultrasound test and liver blood test

[tommy 2 tone]

I submitted a question yesterday,and thank you for your reply.My question today is I'm concerned about my pancreas I have had some changes in color of stool.I had liver test done and the first test showed elevated liver enzymes,I then had a complete liver panel done and all was normal no hepatitis,bilirubin was normal albumin and alkaline phosphate normal,I quit drinking and changed my diet completely due to the fact the ultrasound showed I had a non alcoholic fatty liver,and repeat liver enzymes showed my ast ald had gone back to normal. My question is my DR.said the radiologist could not see my pancreas real well due to gas,but assured me that if there had been a tumor the radiologist would be able to tell.I am seeing my doctor in a few days,but I'm wondering can liver blood test show any signs of pancreas problems? I am on several new medications for depression and anxiety,and have been under a lot of stress due to this change in color and texture,I had a colonoscopy and endoscopy last year,so my Dr. says he knows its not colon cancer,but I'm concerned about pancreas,I have occasional abdominal pain,and diarrea (diarrhea) at times,can medication and change in diet do this thank you so much.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It may be possible for pancreatic cancer to elevate liver enzymes.  The ultrasound is not the best test to visualize the pancreas.  If there continues to be concern, you can check the pancreatic enzymes as well as obtain a CT scan to visualize the pancreas.  

Another option would be to obtain an MRCP to evaluate the pancreatic ducts.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician or in conjunction with a GI evaluation.

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.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

[LukeL]

If you read my earlier post you will know that certain foods can change the color of your stoll to mimic blood or bile in your stool. If all your liver tests came back normal and your ultra sound did as well odds are it is just from diet. medication or a part of aging.  

If you are still worried you may want to have a CT done but this is very costly and would probably run you around $1000.00  and insurance may not cover it.