Re: 1st g.i. visit yesterday/pseudocysts - to cindy

[Guest guest]

Dear Cindy,

I've had two pseudocysts for the past 4-1/2 years. They are like old,

unwanted and unwelcome friends. Initially, the pseudocyst in the tail

of my pancreas was the largest of the two, it was somewhere well over

6 cm., but it was partially drained by CT-guided fine needle

aspiration and brought down to 5 x 8 cm. After several months and

another serious attack, the pseudocyst located near the head of my

pancreas enlarged to 6 x 8 cm. and the one in the tail became smaller.

At that time and now, there was, (is), extensive calcification

surrounding both of these pseudocysts.

Severe upper back pain accompanied both pseudocysts, but I have

noticed that the upper left quadrant back pain increased as the

pseudocyst in the head increased in size. This is a very common side

effect, not only for people with pseudocysts, but for the chronic

pancreatitis population in general.

And, yes, with a larger pseudocyst located close to the head of the

pancreas, when you lay on your tummy it will feel like there's a brick

in there. When I lay flat on my back, you can actually see a bulge

underneath the surface of my skin where the pseudocyst is, and I can

feel it's outline with my fingertips.

Has your doctor said what his plans are for you regarding the pseudocyst?

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

SC Rep

SE Regional Rep

PAI

Note: All comments or advice are based on personal experience or

opinion only, and should not be substituted for consultation with

your medical professional.