Pitfalls in the Diagnosis of Jaundice due to Carcinoma of the Pancreas or Biliary Tree. Issue 5852 (3rd March 1973)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Stern, R. B.; Knill-Jones, R. P.; Williams, Roger
• Is Part Of: BMJ. Volume 1:Issue 5852(1973)
• Page Start: 533
• Page End: 534
• Publication Date: 1973-03-03
• Subjects: Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine; Periodicals; 610
• DOI: 10.1136/bmj.1.5852.533
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0007-1447

Abstract

Abstract : Analysis of 56 patients with obstructive jaundice due to carcinoma of the pancreas or extrahepatic biliary tree showed that unexpected features were present in 25%. Presentation with painless jaundice was uncommon, and the symptoms were more often non-specific, with malaise, anorexia, and vomiting. Abdominal pain was frequent, and the condition was found in young patients. One-fifth presented with serum alkaline phosphatase levels of less than 30 K.A. units. Some had high serum aspartate aminotransferase levels, more characteristic of hepatocellular jaundice. A mathematical model may be helpful in correctly weighting these various criteria.