Could My Symptoms Indicate Colon Cancer After Liver Donation?

Am I suffering from colorectal cancer?

Two years ago, I donated part of my liver, leaving me with 50% of my liver and having my gallbladder removed.
Since the surgery, I have frequently experienced diarrhea, especially after consuming greasy foods.
Recently, I have occasionally felt a dull pain in my abdomen.
Last week, my stool was blackish-green and contained pieces resembling seaweed (I had eaten a large amount of sweet potato leaves at that time).
After stopping that food, the symptoms subsided, but I continue to experience morning diarrhea, occurring about one to three times daily.
My stool, which was initially formed, has become mushy, appearing blackish-brown or golden yellow, accompanied by mucus and bubbles.
There are also small black specks in the loose stool.
Recently, I have been very anxious and stressed, with a loss of appetite.
Could this be irritable bowel syndrome or poor digestion?

Ii, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/25

Dr. Yang Zhichao reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Dear Ms.
Ii,
Based on your description, it does seem more like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
However, since you have also undergone gallbladder removal, this could potentially contribute to your abdominal discomfort.
I recommend that you consult with a physician for an evaluation to see if medication can help improve your condition or to arrange for a routine stool examination.
This would be a better approach.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2017/07/25

More Info

After liver donation and gallbladder removal, experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms can be concerning, especially when there are changes in bowel habits and the appearance of stool. Your symptoms, including frequent diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and changes in stool color and consistency, warrant careful evaluation.

Firstly, it's important to understand that after liver donation, the remaining liver tissue can adapt and function adequately, but the absence of the gallbladder can lead to changes in digestion. The gallbladder stores bile, which is essential for the digestion of fats. Without it, bile flows directly from the liver into the intestine, which can sometimes lead to difficulties in digesting fatty foods, resulting in diarrhea or loose stools, particularly after consuming greasy meals.

The presence of black or dark green stool can be indicative of several issues. Dark stools may suggest the presence of blood that has been digested, which can occur in conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding. However, if you have recently consumed a large quantity of leafy greens (like sweet potato leaves), this could also contribute to the dark coloration due to the high chlorophyll content. The "seaweed-like" pieces you mentioned could be undigested food particles, particularly if they are fibrous.

The symptoms of abdominal pain, especially if they are recurrent, along with changes in bowel habits, could suggest a few possibilities:
1. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): This is a common condition that can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea or constipation). Stress and anxiety can exacerbate these symptoms.

2. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome: After gallbladder removal, some individuals experience ongoing digestive issues, including diarrhea and abdominal discomfort.

3. Gastrointestinal bleeding: If the black stools persist or if you notice any other signs of bleeding (like bright red blood in the stool), it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

4. Infection or inflammation: Conditions such as gastroenteritis or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can also cause similar symptoms.

Given your anxiety and loss of appetite, it is essential to address both your physical and mental health. Stress can significantly impact digestive health, potentially leading to or exacerbating conditions like IBS.

Recommendations:
1. Consult a Gastroenterologist: Given your symptoms, it would be prudent to consult a specialist who can perform necessary evaluations, such as blood tests, stool tests, or imaging studies, to rule out any serious conditions.

2. Dietary Modifications: Keep a food diary to identify any specific foods that trigger your symptoms. It may be beneficial to avoid high-fat meals and incorporate a balanced diet rich in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements.

3. Manage Stress: Consider techniques such as mindfulness, yoga, or therapy to help manage anxiety, which can have a significant impact on digestive health.

4. Regular Follow-ups: Given your history of liver donation and gallbladder removal, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your overall health and address any emerging issues promptly.

In summary, while your symptoms could be related to digestive changes following your liver donation and gallbladder removal, they could also indicate other gastrointestinal issues. It is crucial to seek medical advice to ensure a thorough evaluation and appropriate management of your symptoms.

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