Can Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recur? Understanding Risks and Diagnosis
Is it possible for nasopharyngeal carcinoma to recur? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my family member. Two and a half years ago, they were diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma T1N1 and underwent 33 sessions of proton therapy and 5 cycles of chemotherapy. Subsequent ex...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Li / 40 years old / Female Hello~~ 1. I would like to ask the doctor~~ Is the diagnosis primarily based on the biopsy report? A: Yes, the diagnosis is primarily based on the biopsy report. However, if there are suspicions and the biopsy is inconclusive, we may repeat the...[Read More] Can Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recur? Understanding Risks and Diagnosis
Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
For HER2-positive breast cancer, after one year of treatment with trastuzumab (Herceptin), it is important to evaluate the patient's individual situation, including the response to treatment and any potential side effects. Continuing treatment may be recommended based on the...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to consider the following options: 1. The PET scan shows a very faint residual lesion in the left chest wall; should consideration be given to resecting the residual lesion to enhance treatment efficacy? 2. Continue maintenance therapy with anti-cancer treatment...[Read More] Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
Understanding Recurrent Lumps Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Solutions
Three lumps in the right armpit? Hello Doctor, starting around November of last year, I noticed 2 to 3 lumps under my right armpit. They are painful when pressed and have been gradually increasing in size. At that time, I visited a breast surgery clinic, and the doctor suspected ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be folliculitis or eczema. It is recommended to see a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. Please note: this issue is outside my area of expertise![Read More] Understanding Recurrent Lumps Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Solutions
Post-Treatment Concerns for HPV-Related Tongue Cancer
Post-treatment issues of HPV-related tongue cancer? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. After undergoing chemoradiation for stage 1 HPV-related tongue cancer, it has been 7 months and my sense of taste has not returned. What should I do? The limited mouth ope...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Lily / 70 years old / Female 1. After 7 months of chemoradiation for stage 1 HPV-related tongue cancer, my sense of taste has not returned. What should I do? The limited mouth opening may be due to fibrosis; how can I rehabilitate it? A: To stimulate your sense of taste, try e...[Read More] Post-Treatment Concerns for HPV-Related Tongue Cancer
Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Please ask your questions regarding CBC blood test data? Hello, Doctor! I have had a unique constitution since childhood, unable to consume supplements, which usually leads to random growths. I have a surgical history of six procedures: 1. Facial lipoma 2. Adenotonsillar hypertro...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
From the initial examination values, it indeed appears to be iron deficiency anemia; however, if there are concerns, it is advisable to consult a hematologist or a specialist in immunology and rheumatology. PS: 1. Does short sleep duration and staying up late affect CBC results...[Read More] Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Is a High EBNA IgG Level Dangerous and Equivalent to EBV DNA?
Are the EBNA IgG levels and EBV DNA levels the same thing? I had a blood test at National Taiwan University for EBNA IgG, and my result is 134.07, which is positive. Is this significantly above the standard? Is it very dangerous? Is this the same as the EBV DNA value you mentione...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes, it is positive, significantly higher than the standard range of 9-11. The value alone cannot determine the presence of cancer; the pathology report is the basis for a definitive diagnosis. 2. IgG is not DNA; I personally do not test for IgG. I only test for DNA, bu...[Read More] Is a High EBNA IgG Level Dangerous and Equivalent to EBV DNA?
Understanding Suspected Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Suspected Mediterranean anemia (Thalassemia) Hello Doctor: Since I was young, my father has mentioned that he was told by a physician that he might have Mediterranean anemia. My blood reports have consistently shown abnormal results. During high school, if I just woke up, I would...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Mediterranean anemia can only be diagnosed through hemoglobin electrophoresis (covered by health insurance) or genetic testing (out-of-pocket). The hemoglobin level, regardless of its value, cannot confirm the diagnosis; it can only raise suspicion. 2. The HBA2 level ca...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can Exercise Help Relieve Itchy Skin from Cancer Treatment Side Effects?
Medication side effects: Does exercise help with dry and itchy skin? Hello doctor, my aunt (67) is undergoing targeted therapy for breast cancer, and her hands and feet are very red and itchy. The last time she scratched, she broke the skin, and the wound hasn't healed yet. ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Patient: 67 years old, female 1. I think moderate exercise might be helpful? A: Exercising and sweating is great! You can refer to online articles: "Exercise!" Endorphins are the most powerful and effective antidepressants. We can't avoid exercising just because...[Read More] Can Exercise Help Relieve Itchy Skin from Cancer Treatment Side Effects?
Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Abdominal ascites examination? Hello, doctor. The hospital said there are multiple tumors in the abdomen and also ascites, with a slightly elevated inflammatory index. They suspect there may be issues with the ovaries and peritoneum. They performed an ascitic fluid analysis, and ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Yes, cancer examinations follow a standard procedure and require a certain amount of time. Initially, non-invasive tests (which have low risk, are easier to perform, and have fewer complications) are prioritized. If a clear diagnosis is not established, then invasive tests (which...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
The CYFRA 21-1 level is elevated in the health checkup? Hello, doctor. After my full body check-up today, my CYFRA21-1 level was 2.57, while the normal range on the report is 2.37, exceeding it by 0.2 (I have a smoking history of about 12 years, I'm 31 years old, and there i...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
After the chest X-ray is completed, if there are any abnormalities, consider a self-paid low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. Note: Based on smoking history and medical history, this individual belongs to a low-risk group for lung cancer; however, it is still recommended to co...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: When to Consult a Hematologist
The white blood cell count is slightly below the normal range? I have been regularly seeing a cardiologist and getting blood tests every three months (with white blood cell counts checked approximately every six months). During my recent follow-up appointment at the end of April,...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
CY / 52 years old / Female Q: What would be the most suitable course of action for my condition? A: 1. Continuous monitoring 2. There are some dietary supplements for increasing white blood cell count available online 3. Consult with a hematologist, Dr. Chen Sih-Jung at Taoyu...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: When to Consult a Hematologist
Understanding Your EBV Test Results: Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns
Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond, which has helped ease my anxiety and allowed me to sleep better? Hello Doctor, I am very anxious and would like to ask a few questions. I have not had any cough, but I constantly feel like I have phlegm. I visited several clinics...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Yes, it is very dangerous. The normal EBV DNA levels in healthy individuals are close to zero, which likely indicates a possibility of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Please wait for the biopsy pathology results; until the pathology report is available, everything remains highly...[Read More] Understanding Your EBV Test Results: Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns
Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Occasional dizziness and headaches; elevated vitamin B12 levels? Hello, my recent blood test results are as follows: Complete Blood Count I (eight items) RBC 4.64, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) PLATELET 496, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) MPV 8.9, Complete Blood Coun...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. If platelet count is elevated (>400K), it is recommended to follow up in 3-6 months. If it remains elevated (>400K), it is advisable to consult a hematologist. 2. Elevated vitamin B12 levels do not cause headaches or dizziness. 3. If kidney function is impaired (elevat...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Understanding Your Low-Dose CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Low-Dose Computed Tomography Report Hello, three years ago I had a check-up that was normal. This time I paid out of pocket for another examination and just received the report. It indicates that there is a 3.5 mm ground-glass opacity (GGO) close to the right minor fissure that n...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hope / 39 years old / Female 1. I would like to ask what this means. A: 1.1 A 3.3 mm nodule in the breast cannot be definitively classified as normal or abnormal; it will be considered normal and will be monitored for any growth. However, there is no need to be anxious about i...[Read More] Understanding Your Low-Dose CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Understanding Stage IA1 Lung Adenocarcinoma and Tumor Marker Abnormalities
Stage I lung adenocarcinoma with abnormal tumor markers? Hello Doctor, this is my mother's pathology report from that time. NOMED: 28000-B-M81403, 29000-B-M09450 DX: Lung, right middle lobe, wedge resection - Invasive acinar adenocarcinoma, moderately differentiated (G2)...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Huang, 27 years old, male, has been diagnosed with stage I lung cancer. The Cyfra 21-1 level is 4.11, which is greater than the standard of 3.3 (first test). It is advisable to conduct follow-up testing for Cyfra 21-1 earlier, which is out-of-pocket, so you can have it checked ev...[Read More] Understanding Stage IA1 Lung Adenocarcinoma and Tumor Marker Abnormalities
Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Impact of Pregnancy on Tumor Markers
The annual company health check-up included tumor marker screening, and the CA 19-9 level was reported at 50? Recently, I had a health check-up at the hospital at the end of March, during which tumor marker screening was performed. Last week, the hospital informed me that my CA 1...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
CA 19-9 can also be elevated in some benign conditions, such as gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, and even bronchitis. It is recommended to follow up in 3-6 months. If the levels remain persistently and abnormally elevated, consider consulting a hematologist or a gastroenterologist ...[Read More] Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Impact of Pregnancy on Tumor Markers
Understanding Underarm Lumps: Causes and Concerns About Pus
There is a small hard lump inside the armpit that produces pus when pressed? Hello Doctor, 1. About a month ago, I noticed a pimple-like bump on the surface of my armpit, which disappeared after a while. However, I later noticed a round, firm lump about 0.5-1 cm in size inside ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be some pustules, folliculitis, or acne; observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Underarm Lumps: Causes and Concerns About Pus
Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Elevated CEA levels? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire: "A family member had a CEA level of 3.6 on December 11, 2023, at the time of diagnosis with stage III breast cancer. Surgery was performed on January 3, 2024, but during the follow-up appointment three months later ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The normal range for CEA is 0-5. The values are interpreted by the machine. If the result is within the normal range (<5) and there are no significant abnormalities in imaging, it is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Understanding Neck Lumps: Lipoma vs. Lymph Nodes in Children
Follow-up question #207281 regarding lymph nodes in the neck? Hello Dr. Chen, Thank you very much for your response to the inquiry regarding "lymph nodes in the neck" in article #207281. You mentioned the possibility of a "lipoma," so I would like to ask you ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kris / 42 years old / Male Q1-2A: I suggest you not to get too caught up in whether it is a lipoma; instead, focus on the current issue and get a neck ultrasound or CT scan. Q3: Dr. Chen, if a "lipoma" forms, is there a possibility that it could disappear on its own...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: Lipoma vs. Lymph Nodes in Children
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Neck: Common Concerns and Questions
Questions about cervical lymph nodes? Hello Dr. Chen: When I was about 4 to 5 years old, I discovered an oval-shaped mass in the middle of my right neck that was oriented vertically. It felt soft and movable. Although the mass was not very large, it was clearly visible. My mother...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kris / 42 years old / Male Q1. Is it possible for the lymph nodes to remain enlarged without decreasing in size or disappearing, and still be present today? A: 1.A It is uncertain whether it is a lipoma or a lymph node. 1.B It can still be present. Q2. Dr. Chen, are the lymph...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling in the Neck: Common Concerns and Questions