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Why Am I Having Burning Mid Back Pain For Over A Month While Managing GERD?

Posted on Fri, 8 Jan 2021

Question: Am having burning mid back pains for over a month. I have GERD but protonix no longer seems to be working. And recently had some blood tests. Lipase was 192u/L. Should I be concerned with pancreatic cancer? My gastroenterologist doesn't think there's a problem.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Lipase slightly high

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome

I appreciate your concern

A normal lipase level can range from 0-160 U/L depending on the lab. Your level is slightly above the normal range. Lipase levels are raised in pancreatic cancer. Liver function tests and an ultrasound abdomen pelvis should also be done. If there is high suspicion then a CT abdomen with pancreatic protocol can be advised in consultation with your doctor.

For the GERD, you should add a combination of alverine citrate + simethicone to the protonix. Protonix should be replaced by lansoprazole as it has a better effect in my experience with patients compared to other PPIs.

Wishing you best of health

Thanks

Let me know if you have any query

Please consult your doctor before deciding on any further course of action.

Dr. M.S. Khalil

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (1 hour later)

Thanks for the response. Last time I had an ultrasound of the abdomen, the pancreas couldn’t be seen due to bowel gas. My last CT of the abdomen with contrast was early last year. All clear, but I still think PC at this time is a real possibility. Will try to have my GP or GE set me up for the proper tests.
An odd thing on the lipase matter. The lab here showed the reference range as 73-363 u/L as opposed to 0-160 or even lower that other sources state. So my 192 was unnoticed. How do I question the lab on their standard? I’ve tried with no success.
And thanks for the tip on GERD. Will give lanzaprozole a try.

Answered by Dr. Dr. Muhammad Sareer Khalil (9 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Most welcome

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

You can't , the reference range varies for different labs.

You are most welcome

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj