Re: test results that I hope someone can explain

[Guest guest]

Donna,

I've been told that it's often common for us to have small cysts on the liver or

kidneys. I know I have one on my kidney and every doctor I've talked to has

said that it's common and nothing to worry or do about. As for the one on your

liver, the report does say that it's benign looking. I would imagine that if the

doctor's had felt it to have been a threat last year, a follow up or testing

would

have been ordered. I know they don't drain this type of cyst, but sometimes do

a lap procedure to remove them if it's felt necessary. Best thing for you to do

would be to discuss this with your doctor.

As for the calcification on the tail of your pancreas, that is indicative of

typical

calcification as a result of the natural damage the pancreas receives as CP

advances. Since you've had most of the remainder of your pancreas removed

in the whipple, I would imagine that the tail will eventually calcify more until

it

reaches the point that it's burned out completely. That's what happens with

most people with advanced CP. What next, you ask?

Once it's completely calcified, you may see an end to most of your CP pain.

Once mine burned out, my pancrea pain diminished. The only pain I have

now is from my pseudocysts, and it's a totally different type of pain that I

used

to have before.

Mild ecstasia means mild dilation of the pancreatic duct.

Your pain right now could be a result of some further inflamation of your

remaining organ - are you saying that normally now you never have any CP

pain since the whipple? Any change in activity or pain levels that you're

experiencing should always be discussed with your doctor. I suggest that you

make an appointment to discuss not only this, but the results of that last CT-

scan and see what your doctor recommends. He may feel that it's necessary

to take a closer look at the cyst on your liver, or do some tests to see what's

going on. I highly recommend that anyone who's having unusual symptoms

or problems, see their doctor as soon as possible. That's really the only place

to get any real answers.

With love, hope and prayers,

Heidi

Heidi H. Griffeth

South Carolina

SC & 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 a medical

professional.