Exploring Alternative Diagnoses Beyond SLE: A Patient's Journey
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) Four months ago, the patient developed a rash on the skin and underwent numerous immunological tests. The results showed C1q 24.2, C1c 24.2, C3 73, PL-12 (++), WBC 3600, platelet count 129,000, and urine tests were negative. ANA, dsDNA, pANCA, a...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. The examination data you provided is insufficient, so I cannot offer any recommendations based on these results. However, I believe that a negative ANA (antinuclear antibody) test reduces the likelihood of systemic lupus erythematosus and increa...[Read More] Exploring Alternative Diagnoses Beyond SLE: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
Blood sugar issues? Hello doctor, I recently had a health check-up, and the report indicated "generally normal, regular check-ups recommended." However, I noticed that my blood sugar levels are nearing the normal range limit; my fasting blood glucose (AC) is 95 mg/dL. I...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If there is a family history of diabetes or issues with being overweight, you can also go to a major hospital for further examinations, such as checking your hemoglobin A1c. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: When to Seek Further Testing
Understanding Finger Pain: Is It Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosing Spondylitis Fingers Hello Doctor, a few days ago, I suddenly started experiencing pain in the interphalangeal joint of my left thumb. It hurts more when I press or apply force (I noticed the pain when the thumb is in a disadvantaged position). I would like to ask what ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in peripheral joints, but this is less common. The primary manifestation is usually tendinitis or synovitis, leading to swelling and pain in the entire finger or toe. Since your symptoms have be...[Read More] Understanding Finger Pain: Is It Related to Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Understanding Your ANA Test Results: What Does a 1:40 Titer Mean?
Antinuclear antibody (ANA) blood test results? Hello Doctor: My ANA (antinuclear antibody) test result is 1:40, but the report notes that there are speckles in the blood. Does this indicate that I have a rheumatic-related disease? I have been having sleep issues for over three mo...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. An ANA antibody result below 1:80 is generally considered normal. However, during the interpretation of the test, abnormalities can be observed at a dilution of 1:40, which is why some laboratories may report 1:40 as abnormal. We typically cons...[Read More] Understanding Your ANA Test Results: What Does a 1:40 Titer Mean?
Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Recently, I have been experiencing a lot of health issues? Hello Doctor, since the beginning of this summer, I have been feeling excessively hot and sweating profusely even with slight exercise. I have also been experiencing recurrent infections in my intimate area (itching and d...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Due to the symptoms involving multiple organ systems, it is recommended to visit a large hospital and consult with a family medicine specialist for a systematic examination. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Understanding Your Health Issues: Symptoms and Solutions for Better Wellness
Needle Injury Concerns: Risk of Infection and What to Do Next
Needle stick injury and infection concerns? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about something. Today, I went to buy a sewing needle for leather shoes (it's a bit thicker than a regular needle, and the tip is sharpened into a triangular shape). The male shop owner, who l...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, needle stick injuries typically occur shortly after blood is drawn, as the needle may still harbor viable viruses that pose a potential risk of transmission. If the injury occurs two hours later, the likelihood of viable viruses remaining is quite low, and the risk of tran...[Read More] Needle Injury Concerns: Risk of Infection and What to Do Next
Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Abnormalities in the immune system? In the past three years, I have experienced intermittent urticaria on my face. After consulting with a rheumatologist, it was determined that it was caused by an allergy, and I have also been experiencing joint pain (without swelling), low-grad...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe the likelihood of Sjögren's syndrome is high. Although the tear secretion is not at the standard level, it is close to the abnormal threshold. Additionally, with a positive SSA, elevated IgG levels, and joint symptoms, if the sali...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Abnormalities: Symptoms and Risks of Sjögren's Syndrome
Is an EF of 65% Normal After a Heart Ultrasound at Age 23?
Echocardiogram I am 23 years old and had an echocardiogram last week. I would like to ask if an ejection fraction (EF) of 65% is considered normal?
Dr. Yu Liying Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yao. EF in echocardiography refers to ejection fraction, which describes the function of the left ventricle, although it can occasionally refer to the right ventricle as well. While this number appears to be within the normal range, I must remind you that echocardiogr...[Read More] Is an EF of 65% Normal After a Heart Ultrasound at Age 23?
Managing SSA Antibody Positive Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy with positive SSA antibodies? Hello doctor, I have a positive SSA result of 160, which has remained around this level for the past three years with no significant symptoms. I have been regularly following up with the immunology department in Taoyuan. Later, when I found...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I believe you don't need to worry too much at this stage. The likelihood of neonatal arrhythmias in pregnant women who are SSA positive is relatively low, but it is indeed something to monitor. Quinine is a medication and does have potenti...[Read More] Managing SSA Antibody Positive Pregnancy: What You Need to Know
Can Hospitalization Shorten Syphilis Treatment Duration?
Can syphilis treatment be expedited through hospitalization? I run a breakfast shop, and sometimes I get so busy that I forget to take my medication. Is it possible to shorten the process by being hospitalized for a week?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Sometimes sexually transmitted infections can be transmitted simultaneously, and you can come for anonymous testing at any time, such as for HIV. 2. There are several treatment methods for syphilis, including a series of injections over three weeks, oral medications, or a si...[Read More] Can Hospitalization Shorten Syphilis Treatment Duration?
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Dental and Barber Settings
HIV transmission routes (dental cleaning, barbering) 1. If you go to the dentist for a teeth cleaning and experience gum bleeding, is there a risk of contracting HIV? 2. If a barber accidentally cuts you with their tools and there is bleeding, and there was someone before you w...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. To determine if the person in front has been diagnosed with HIV, if they have and are irregular with their medication, resulting in a high viral load, there is a risk of transmission. 2. Dental instruments should be properly sterilized and not reused, so the risk of infectio...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Dental and Barber Settings
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Eye Exposure
Possibility of infection Hello Doctor, I work in the service industry and today while I was working, something splashed into my eye. A customer was concerned about the possibility of being splashed with someone else's blood and getting infected with HIV. However, I looked ar...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Just like healthcare workers who are pricked by needles, the chance of infection is very low, but there is a psychological barrier that makes them consider taking preventive medication. 2. If you are concerned about infection, it might be a good idea to wear goggles while wo...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Eye Exposure
Can You Get HIV from Touching Your Nose or Ears After Contact?
HIV transmission routes (nose, ears) If the hand unknowingly came into contact with HIV-infected bodily fluids and then accidentally touched the inside of the nose or the inside of the ear, is there a risk of HIV infection in this situation?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. The HIV virus dies within 10 minutes after leaving the human body. 2. Of course, it is more important to avoid handling items that contain bodily fluids or blood without gloves and to maintain good hand hygiene.[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Touching Your Nose or Ears After Contact?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission in Eye Care Settings
Possibility of HIV Infection When I visited the ophthalmologist, the patient before me seemed to have a pus-filled lesion on their eye, which the doctor removed, and it appeared to be bleeding. When it was my turn, only about 10 minutes had passed. I had a blister and an eyelash ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. Currently, the number of people living with HIV in Taiwan is approximately 1 to 2 per 1,000 individuals. 2. Medical facilities should ensure that treatment equipment is regularly cleaned and replaced; if necessary, patients can request this from their physician. 3. The HIV...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Transmission in Eye Care Settings
Understanding BC Hepatitis and HPV Screening After Risky Behavior
Hepatitis B and HPV screening issues? Hello Doctor: Recently, I engaged in high-risk behavior (unprotected oral sex with a female) and would like to get tested for hepatitis B and C. I found online that the window period for hepatitis B and C testing is between 3 to 6 months, but...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. If the window period has passed and there is an infection, it will definitely be detectable. 2. If necessary, you can conduct self-testing or anonymous testing. 3. For information regarding HPV, you can refer to the following resource: https://health.esdlife.com/shop/hk/co...[Read More] Understanding BC Hepatitis and HPV Screening After Risky Behavior
Understanding HIV Transmission Through Mucous Membranes: Eyes, Ears, and Nose
HIV transmission routes (eyes, ears, nose) The eyes, ears, and nose are mucosal areas. For HIV to be transmitted through these mucosal surfaces, specific conditions must be met, such as exposure to infected bodily fluids (like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk) in a ma...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: There is a risk of infection when engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Through Mucous Membranes: Eyes, Ears, and Nose
Can You Get HIV from Needle Sticks? Understanding the Risks
Regarding acupuncture? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the news regarding the incident on the Taiwan Railways where someone was pricked by a syringe. Is there a risk of HIV infection from being punctured by a syringe like that? Our general understanding of transmission r...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk o...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Needle Sticks? Understanding the Risks
Understanding HIV Transmission Through Mucous Membranes: Eyes, Ears, and Nose
HIV transmission routes (eyes, ears, nose) The eyes, ears, and nose are mucosal areas. For HIV to be transmitted through these mucosal surfaces, specific conditions must be met, such as direct exposure to infected bodily fluids (like blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or breast milk) ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: There is a risk of infection when engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Through Mucous Membranes: Eyes, Ears, and Nose
Can You Get HIV from Touching a Door Handle with Blood?
HIV transmission (doorknob) If an HIV-positive individual opened a door and there was HIV-contaminated blood on the doorknob, and then I subsequently touched the doorknob with my hand that has an open wound, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the risk of tran...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries the risk of infect...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Touching a Door Handle with Blood?
Understanding HIV Risks from Finger Pricks During Blood Donation
Finger puncture? Hello, doctor. 1. When donating blood, they first test hemoglobin, which involves a finger prick. Is there a risk of HIV infection if the puncture wound comes into contact with blood? 2. If I shake hands with someone who is also donating blood and both of us h...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A. Sexual transmission: There is a risk of infection when engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other excha...[Read More] Understanding HIV Risks from Finger Pricks During Blood Donation