
What Causes High UIBC Levels Along With Vomiting?

Question: I have been referred to a Hem/Onc following are series of tests, endoscopy, upper Gi, and CT scan. Had colonoscopy in Oct 2011 that was normal. All tests have been normal except hemo count. In addition to low hemo, my RBC's are slightly low (4.09). Ferritin is normal, but UIBC is high (353) and iron saturation is low (14). On November 7th, I had a one-time episode of blood in my vomit. My internist believes I had some type of bleed of unknown origin. Three fecal samples have all been free of blood. I don't understand what the Hem/Onc will be looking for. Any guidance?
Brief Answer:
PET scan
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Since you had one time episode of vomiting and your unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) is high I would advise you to do a PET can.
You are suffering from Iron deficiency anemia as your iron saturation is low and UIBC is high.
Slow chronic blood loss within the body can be due to colorectal cancer and that is why you have been referred to a Hem/Onc department and you must do a PET scan to rule out malignancy.
I will also advise you to take your iron tablets when your stomach is empty with your doctor’s advice.
Regards
DR DE
PET scan
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Since you had one time episode of vomiting and your unsaturated iron binding capacity (UIBC) is high I would advise you to do a PET can.
You are suffering from Iron deficiency anemia as your iron saturation is low and UIBC is high.
Slow chronic blood loss within the body can be due to colorectal cancer and that is why you have been referred to a Hem/Onc department and you must do a PET scan to rule out malignancy.
I will also advise you to take your iron tablets when your stomach is empty with your doctor’s advice.
Regards
DR DE
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju


My GI dr said the colonoscopy in 2011 ruled out colon cancer. Also 3 fecal samples have been free of blood. Is colon cancer still possible?
Brief Answer:
Fresh colonoscopy test
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Your last colonoscopy was done 3 years back and though it was normal that time I would advise you to do a fresh colonoscopy test since you are having symptoms of blood in your vomit in November.
Though your fecal samples are free of blood colon cancer can still develop within 3 years and if any lesion is found in the colonoscopy or PET scan then biopsy must be done to rule out malignancy.
If you have no more clarifications then please rate the answer and close the thread.
Regards
DR DE
Fresh colonoscopy test
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Your last colonoscopy was done 3 years back and though it was normal that time I would advise you to do a fresh colonoscopy test since you are having symptoms of blood in your vomit in November.
Though your fecal samples are free of blood colon cancer can still develop within 3 years and if any lesion is found in the colonoscopy or PET scan then biopsy must be done to rule out malignancy.
If you have no more clarifications then please rate the answer and close the thread.
Regards
DR DE
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Nalaparaju

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