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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
What is the problem?
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.
What is the problem?
by Mcducky, May 01, 2006 12:00AM
Hi ~ while in Iraq Mid 2004 diagnosed (some MDs ? dx) with cholorquine induced hepatitis. ANAs elevated etc. Now normal. MD ordered ultrasound (Sept 04) that showed small contracted gallbladder with echodenisity sludge and numerous stones. MD "no worry, we don't need to do anything at this time"; Worry wort that I can be I had it repeated 5 months later, results = healthy; While undergoing routine Persian Gulf Vet check up in March 06 Doc asked why I hadn't had gally removed. So...repeated ultrasound month ago = questionably contracted, abnormally small, with wall thickening to 3.6mm. No stones. Had ejection fraction - awaiting results. In ef exam tech had really hard time finding gally said it was in abnormal location and small. Almost stopped test...What next? Surgeon wonders if there is a problem. I am scared, nothing I read says a 3.6mm wall is an acceptable abnormality. What should I do? Thank you, Mcducky
Doctor's Answer
by Kevin Pho, MD, May 02, 2006 12:00AM
, May 02, 2006 12:00AM
It would depend if you are having symptoms (i.e. abdominal pain) from the findings. If you are, a low gallbladder ejection fraction can be an indication for removal.
You can also consider obtaining liver function testing as well to see if any of the values are elevated.
Otherwise, obtaining another GI opinion to interpret the tests can be considered to cement the diagnosis. Repeating the HIDA scan with CCK stimulation can be considered - preferably obtaining the test at a major academic medical center.
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_
You can also consider obtaining liver function testing as well to see if any of the values are elevated.
Otherwise, obtaining another GI opinion to interpret the tests can be considered to cement the diagnosis. Repeating the HIDA scan with CCK stimulation can be considered - preferably obtaining the test at a major academic medical center.
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_
Member Comments (1)
by Mcducky, May 01, 2006 12:00AM
PS alt was 640 but is apparently normal now..have been tested (neg) for hepatitis. I have not had a drop of alcohol in 20 + years...In college decided it wasn't in my best interest. Non-smoker.
