Will Removing Enlarged Lymph Nodes Affect My Health?
Will the removal of enlarged lymph nodes have an impact on the body? Hello, doctor. I have two enlarged lymph nodes under my armpit, approximately 1.5 cm and 1 cm in size, which I noticed about a month ago (I’m not sure when they appeared). My blood test results are normal. The d...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The human body has many lymphatic vessels and lymph nodes, numbering in the hundreds or thousands. Removing just 1 or 2 nodes is not a significant issue. It will not cause any lasting side effects, nor will it affect your immune resistance, so there's no need to worry...[Read More] Will Removing Enlarged Lymph Nodes Affect My Health?
Night Sweats: Could They Indicate Lymphoma or Stress?
Night sweats Hello Doctor: Three days ago, I woke up in the middle of the night with my upper body covered in sweat and my face flushed. For the past two nights, I have also felt hot and woken up (the night before last, my temperature was 36.1°C when I checked it right after waki...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The symptoms of hyperthermia, flushing, and difficulty in categorizing the issue are quite nonspecific complaints. You may start by consulting a specialist in metabolic disorders. Thank you.[Read More] Night Sweats: Could They Indicate Lymphoma or Stress?
Do You Suspect a Pituitary Tumor? Understanding Diagnosis and Next Steps
Is there a concern for a pituitary tumor? Hello, Doctor: Since I started my menstrual cycle, my periods have been irregular, and in the past two to three years, the frequency of my menstruation has decreased significantly. After taking ovulation medication for three months in the...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
A skull X-ray is only used to examine the bones of the head; are you referring to a brain CT scan? If it is a CT scan, it can visualize the actual structures of the brain. If a scan was performed a year ago and no abnormalities of the pituitary gland (such as a tumor) were found,...[Read More] Do You Suspect a Pituitary Tumor? Understanding Diagnosis and Next Steps
Understanding Increasing Red Blood Cell Counts: Implications and Management
The number of red blood cells is increasing? Hello Doctor: I am a 40-year-old female. My blood tests show an increasing trend in red blood cell count. In July 2015, my RBC was 6.36, MCV was 62.5, and MCH was 20. In August 2016, my RBC was 6.37, MCV was 61.7, and MCH was 19.2. In ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Although you did not provide complete blood test data, I would guess that you have thalassemia (a hereditary condition!). Please bring all your paper documents to the hematology outpatient clinic for consultation. Thank you. P.S. The iron supplements you are taking are not...[Read More] Understanding Increasing Red Blood Cell Counts: Implications and Management
Understanding Monoclonal Gammopathy: Risks and Management Strategies
Unexplained monoclonal protein abnormalities My mother was informed during a blood test at Taipei Veterans General Hospital that her IgG levels were elevated (first test 1685, second test 1698) and her Kappa/Lambda ratio (approximately 20 in the first test, about 22 in the second...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
This condition cannot be prevented; subsequent follow-up is more important. If concerned, it is advisable to return for a check-up every six months. If any of the following situations occur, it is recommended to schedule an earlier appointment: worsening kidney function (decrease...[Read More] Understanding Monoclonal Gammopathy: Risks and Management Strategies
Swollen Lump Under Left Armpit: Which Specialist to Consult?
There is a lump under the left armpit? Hello doctor, I have noticed a lump under my left armpit over the past three days. It feels like a ball when I raise my arm, but I can hardly feel it when my arm is down. However, it is painful when pressed. I have read that it is recommende...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to observe for a month or more (1-3 months). If there is no spontaneous resolution or if it increases in size, it is advisable to consult a general surgeon.[Read More] Swollen Lump Under Left Armpit: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding a 1cm Hard Lump Underarm: Causes and Concerns
There is a hard lump (approximately 1 cm) in the armpit? Hello, doctor. About a month ago, I discovered a lump in my armpit while taking a shower. It's about one centimeter in size (similar to now). Initially, I was able to squeeze out small white substances, but later, it b...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: You can visit either a dermatologist or a general surgeon, thank you.[Read More] Understanding a 1cm Hard Lump Underarm: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Side Effects of Ufur Capsules in Colorectal Cancer Treatment
The side effects of Ufur Rejuvenation Capsules? Hello, doctor. My mother is approximately 68 years old and was diagnosed with colon cancer during a health check last year. She underwent surgery to remove the tumor in August, and the pathology report classified it as stage 2A. She...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. I cannot comment on traditional Chinese medicine as I am not familiar with it. 2. This is something you should discuss with the primary physician; I cannot answer on their behalf. 3. The answer is the same as above. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Side Effects of Ufur Capsules in Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Understanding Post-Chemotherapy Symptoms in Lung Cancer Patients
Regarding the complications of lung cancer? My father is a patient with hepatitis B and lung cancer (aged 60). He completed chemotherapy and radiation therapy about one to two years ago, and since then, he sneezes at least once a day (sometimes even more, including several sneeze...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: It should not be a side effect of the treatment. You can consult an otolaryngologist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Post-Chemotherapy Symptoms in Lung Cancer Patients
Managing Suspected Multiple Myeloma: Key Insights and Recommendations
Management of suspected multiple myeloma? Hello, my father is 64 years old. Recently, a blood test revealed a hemoglobin level of 9.4 gm/dL. Despite multiple blood transfusions, his hemoglobin remains below 10 gm/dL, prompting further examination. The results showed the following...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Have you confirmed a diagnosis of multiple myeloma? So you received a major illness certificate? Based on your statement, it is impossible because a bone marrow aspiration has not been performed! Without a bone marrow aspiration, a diagnosis of myeloma cannot be made. A...[Read More] Managing Suspected Multiple Myeloma: Key Insights and Recommendations
Understanding Blood Test Results After Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Treatment
Blood values I would like to consult a physician. I was diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma a year ago and have completed treatment. Recently, I had a blood test and found that my CD8 levels are elevated, CD4 levels are low, and CD19 is at 0. Other routine tests showed e...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Please discuss the significance of this value with your primary physician. I personally do not use this for monitoring the condition regularly. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results After Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Treatment
Can Radiation Therapy Improve Speech in Elderly Patients with Brain Cancer?
Radiation Therapy for Brain Cancer The elderly patient (80 years old) at home has secondary brain cancer that is compressing the nerves, leading to unclear speech (but with clear consciousness and understanding). It is also affecting other cranial nerves (such as the inability to...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yuil / 27 years old / Female 1. Due to her age, she just wants to try radiation therapy to see if it can help her regain normal speech. Doctor, is there a chance that radiation therapy can restore normal speech? A: The chances are related to the duration of compression; the long...[Read More] Can Radiation Therapy Improve Speech in Elderly Patients with Brain Cancer?
Understanding a Hard Lump in the Armpit: Possible Causes and Concerns
There is a hard lump (approximately 2 cm) in the armpit? There is a hard lump in the armpit (approximately 2.5 cm) that has grown significantly over the past two weeks. It does not hurt, feels firm to the touch, is visibly protruding, and there is no redness or swelling. What cou...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Please make an appointment with a general surgeon as soon as possible to see if a biopsy of the axillary lymph nodes is necessary. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding a Hard Lump in the Armpit: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to See a Specialist for Concerns
I felt a lump in my neck? Hello doctor, a few days ago I felt something on the left side of my neck that is soft and movable. When I press on it, it feels a bit sore, but not too painful. I noticed it after feeling some warmth and pain in my neck while sleeping. Additionally, I s...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be localized inflammation causing lymphadenopathy; observation is recommended. It also seems to be related to the menstrual cycle.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to See a Specialist for Concerns
Understanding Gastric Cancer Metastasis: Symptoms and Concerns
Gastric cancer metastasis I would like to ask the doctor about an elderly family member who, due to their age, is reluctant to undergo further examinations. They have only had their stomach checked, where a tumor was found. In addition to the symptoms of gastric cancer, they are ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: I cannot answer this question without a CT scan. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Gastric Cancer Metastasis: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Insights on Biopsy Results and Cancer Concerns
Cervical lymphadenopathy? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about the lymph nodes in my left occipital and left cervical regions. The lymph node in the left occipital area is approximately 1 cm and was discovered in September 2020. Ultrasounds conducted in September 2020 and Janu...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. The left occipital lymph nodes have not changed, so monitoring should suffice as long as they do not increase in size. 2. The left cervical lymph nodes have decreased in size, which likely indicates that it is not cancer. 3. If there is metastatic cancer or lymphoma, fine ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Insights on Biopsy Results and Cancer Concerns
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Cancer Risk Assessment
Lymphadenopathy There is lymphadenopathy in the left inguinal region that has been present for 3 weeks, measuring approximately 2x2 cm. There are no other abnormalities in the body, the lymph node is mobile, and it feels somewhat firm. Is there a high probability of cancer?
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
16-year-old male high school student: 1. The location is somewhat awkward. 2. The size of 2x2 cm is a bit too large. 3. It is recommended to visit a general surgery outpatient clinic for a personal evaluation by a physician. 4. Please inform family members or the school doctor. W...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Cancer Risk Assessment
Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Count: Is It Normal?
Decreased white blood cell count? Hello Doctor, I am Mr. Huang, who just posted a question regarding low white blood cell count. The title was about leukopenia. I recently reviewed my previous test reports: in September 2020, my white blood cell count was 4600, and during my mili...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Huang / 21 years old / Male 1. Variations within the normal range are acceptable. 2. Is such a significant change normal? A: What you refer to as significant is still within the normal range. 3. Is it possible that this could be leukemia? A: Being within the normal rang...[Read More] Understanding Fluctuations in White Blood Cell Count: Is It Normal?
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recurrence: Treatment Options Explained
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma recurrence Doctor, this is the 10th year since my nasopharyngeal carcinoma recurrence. An MRI has revealed lymph nodes behind my right ear and neck. I underwent a traditional lymphadenectomy, and the Epstein-Barr virus test came back normal. Why is it nec...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Cai Cai / 40 years old / Female The recommendation from the hospital you visited is reasonable. For neck recurrence, surgery followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy should be considered to reduce the chances of further recurrence. Of course, choosing between the two optio...[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recurrence: Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Subcutaneous Nodules: Are They Lipomas?
Multiple nodules in the abdomen? Hello, doctor. I have noticed two to three hard subcutaneous nodules in my abdomen. The skin appears normal, the nodules are spherical and less than 1 cm in size, and they are neither painful nor itchy. Could they be lipomas? They have been presen...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Hsu / 26 years old / Female 1. Given the duration, it is more likely to be benign. 2. It does not necessarily need to be treated. 3. Treatment would involve excision. 4. You can consult a general surgeon or a plastic surgeon. Happy New Year! Taoyuan Hospital, Dr. Ch...[Read More] Understanding Subcutaneous Nodules: Are They Lipomas?