Seeking Clarity on My Mother's Health Condition
I am reaching out for some advice from the medical community concerning my mother's health situation. She is a 69-year-old woman, who maintains a typical weight, does not smoke or consume alcohol, and, although she has not been physically active recently, she used to keep busy with household tasks. For over nine months, she has experienced manageable abdominal pain, but her symptoms intensified last month, prompting her to consult a gastroenterology team. Currently, she struggles with food digestion and often experiences gas and discomfort. Her appetite has significantly diminished. Her healthcare providers performed various blood tests and conducted an abdominal MRI. I am deeply worried that the findings suggest pancreatic cancer which might have metastasized to her liver and lymph nodes, as noted in the MRI report. The next steps will include an endoscopic ultrasound and a CT scan of her pancreas. In the meantime, I am feeling quite frightened, as much of the information I've encountered about this illness indicates a swift decline. I realize that definitive conclusions cannot be drawn until the endoscopic ultrasound and biopsy results are available, but I find some solace in her normal CA19-9 level (11). Am I being overly optimistic? I welcome your candid thoughts: • Blood tests reveal very elevated ALK PHOS at 421, along with AST (SGOT) at 182, ALT (SGPT) at 117, and A1ANTRYPSIN at 222. • Hepatitis A Total Antibody = Positive • Hepatitis B Core Antibody = Positive • HBV DNA = Not detected • CA 19-9 = 11 (normal) • Immunoglobulin = 427 The MRI results suggest substantial metastatic involvement in the liver and lymph nodes. While the specific origin of the malignancy is uncertain, it may be situated in the pancreatic uncinate process, which has led to biliary system and pancreatic duct dilation. Given that we are still collecting information and these tests require some time, I would like her to receive medications that could alleviate her symptoms and combat any potential growth inside her. Would prescription ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) be beneficial in shrinking or slowing down a tumor? (The doctor mentioned that UDCA is not typically used for this purpose.) What other inquiries should I make of her healthcare team during this waiting period? Would placing a stent in the bile duct be advantageous for her digestion? Should she consider taking pancreatic enzymes to aid in food breakdown?
Answers (1)
7/10/2025, 5:40:51 AM
OpenHealth AI
Your concern for your mother's health is understandable, especially given the complexities of her symptoms and the potential seriousness of her condition. While it's natural to feel worried, focusing on actionable steps and seeking clarity can help manage both her symptoms and your concerns.
Summary of Key Points
- Your mother is experiencing significant abdominal pain, eating difficulties, and concerning MRI results suggesting possible malignancy.
- Important upcoming tests (endoscopic ultrasound and CT scan) are needed for a definitive diagnosis.
- It's crucial to address her symptoms and improve her quality of life while awaiting results.
Explanation
The symptoms your mother is experiencing, along with the recent imaging and blood results, are alarming and understandably causing you anxiety. While the normal CA19-9 level can be reassuring (as it typically correlates with pancreatic cancer), the elevated liver enzymes and imaging findings are significant. The next steps in her care, namely the endoscopic ultrasound and CT scan, are essential for determining the presence and extent of any potential cancer, as well as planning her treatment.
Next Steps
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Symptom Management: Consider asking her healthcare team about medications to improve digestion and alleviate her discomfort. This could include:
- Pancreatic Enzymes: These can help with digestion and nutrient absorption, especially if her pancreatic function is compromised.
- Bile Duct Stenting: Discuss the possibility of placing a stent to relieve any bile duct obstructions, which can improve digestion and reduce discomfort.
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Communicate with Healthcare Providers:
- Inquire about UDCA: While the doctor indicated that UDCA isn't commonly used for tumor reduction, ask for their reasoning and any alternative medication options that could help manage her symptoms.
- Follow-up on Blood Tests: Request clarification on the implications of the elevated liver enzymes and hepatitis positivity to understand any potential chronic conditions affecting her liver function.
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Keeping a Symptom Diary: Document her symptoms, focusing on the timing, intensity, and factors that may influence her discomfort and appetite. This information can be valuable for her healthcare team in tailoring her care.
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Emotional Support: Caring for someone with serious health concerns can be overwhelming. Consider seeking support for yourself as well, whether through counseling, support groups, or speaking with friends and family.
By focusing on these areas, you can help ensure that your mother receives the necessary support during this challenging time, while also prioritizing her comfort and quality of life. If you have further questions or need more specific information, don't hesitate to ask.
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