Which Specialist Should I See for Gallbladder and Digestive Issues?

Q: Which Specialist Should I See for Gallbladder and Digestive Issues?

Reply： Hello, <br>1. <br>On the X-ray, the area below the right breast corresponds to the liver and gallbladder region. <br>The presence of a white shadow in this area raises the possibility of gallstones. <br>Have you informed your previous physician about this? If you need to f

I'm not sure which department to visit?

Hello Dr.
Chen,
I apologize for taking up your time, but I have a question I would like to ask you.
Recently, I visited the hospital due to discomfort in my abdomen.
After an X-ray, the doctor found no abnormalities in my lower back, but mentioned that there is a white shadow located beneath my right breast.
I am unsure what this could be and the doctor advised me to have it monitored.
However, the doctor did not specify what organ is in that area.
Could you please advise me on which department I should consult and what type of follow-up examination I should undergo? Thank you.
Additionally, during a health check last April, I was diagnosed with gallstones, the largest being approximately 1.8 centimeters.
Some have suggested surgery to prevent complications in case of an attack.
What is your recommendation on this matter?

vivi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/11/15

Dr. Chen Zhiping reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Reply: Hello,
1.
On the X-ray, the area below the right breast corresponds to the liver and gallbladder region.
The presence of a white shadow in this area raises the possibility of gallstones.
Have you informed your previous physician about this? If you need to follow up, please schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist for an abdominal ultrasound.
2.
The management of gallstones generally recommends observation if there are no symptoms.
However, it is advisable to avoid greasy foods.
If you experience recurrent pain in the upper right abdomen, especially if it radiates to the right back or right shoulder blade, or if you develop a fever, then cholecystectomy should be considered.
Sincerely, Dr.
Chen Zhi-Ping, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2004/11/15

More Info

When dealing with gallbladder and digestive issues, it is essential to consult the right specialist to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. In your case, given the symptoms and findings you've described, the most appropriate specialist to see would be a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions related to the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas.

Based on your description, the white shadow observed under your right breast on the X-ray could potentially be related to the gallbladder or other nearby structures, such as the liver or even the diaphragm. Since the gallbladder is located in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, it is crucial to further investigate this finding. The gastroenterologist can recommend additional imaging studies, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, to provide a clearer picture of what might be causing the shadow and to assess the gallbladder for any abnormalities.

Regarding your history of gallstones, particularly the 1.8 cm stone you mentioned, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with gallstones. Gallstones can lead to complications such as cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), or even biliary obstruction. If you have experienced symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or jaundice, these could indicate that the gallstones are causing complications, and surgical intervention may be necessary.

The decision to undergo surgery for gallstones, typically a cholecystectomy (removal of the gallbladder), depends on several factors, including the size and number of stones, the presence of symptoms, and any complications that may have arisen. If you are asymptomatic, some doctors may recommend a watchful waiting approach, but if you have had recurrent episodes of pain or other complications, surgery may be the best option to prevent future issues.

In summary, I recommend that you schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist to discuss your symptoms and the findings from your X-ray. They will be able to provide you with a thorough evaluation and recommend the appropriate follow-up tests. If surgery is indicated, they will guide you through the process and discuss the potential benefits and risks involved. It is essential to address these issues proactively to avoid any serious complications in the future.

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