Hi Shelley. The doc did not speculate much about a dx--just did the h pilori test and said she would refer John to a GI doc. John is feeling much better today but he is more tired that usual. I appreciate you're being sensitive about what we relate to you. That is another thing I like about this forum, we don't really know each other so it's OK to get a little more graphic if the situation calls for it. Just for general info, John is 70 and I'm 78. As far as mycobacterium avium complex is concerned, it gets involved so maybe you might want to google it. I don't mind sharing, just so involved. I've learned a lot over the last five years since my diagnosis. Take care and we'll talk again. Faye