Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Worry and What to Do
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, I have found a lymph node in my neck that is about 0.5 cm in size. It is not painful and does not move much. Is this a cause for concern? Last week, I had an allergic rhinitis flare-up and my throat was also sore; I wonder if there is a connection. I...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding your inquiry, please consult an otolaryngologist for a physical examination and assessment to determine the diagnosis. You may see Dr. Hsu Chia-Fang at our hospital's ENT department for evaluation. Thank you for reaching out. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng (Dir...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Worry and What to Do
Understanding High Platelet Counts: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Thrombocytosis On March 18, I had a pre-pregnancy check-up in the obstetrics and gynecology department, and my platelet count was reported at 755 (I reviewed the report on April 17). During a company health examination on March 31, the value was 1008. Following Dr. Chen's ad...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Please visit the hematology outpatient clinic and bring your reports. Waiting for a month is a bit long; you can come back in two weeks to have your blood drawn again. Thank you![Read More] Understanding High Platelet Counts: When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation
Understanding High Platelet Count: Risks and Pregnancy Considerations
Thrombocytosis In March, during a company health check-up, it was found that my platelet count was elevated. The hospital provided a normal range of 150-450, while my value was 1008. Is there an immediate danger associated with this condition? Is it safe to become pregnant at thi...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello, your platelet count is extremely high, which raises the risk of a stroke at any moment. Please see a hematologist as soon as possible for further blood tests. If your platelet count remains this high, medication will be prescribed to lower it. For now, it is advisable to a...[Read More] Understanding High Platelet Count: Risks and Pregnancy Considerations
Can Radiation and Chemotherapy Be Combined for Cancer Treatment?
Can radiation therapy and chemotherapy be done together? Hello, Director Lai. I have a matter I am unsure about. My wife was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which recurred three years later and metastasized to the lymph nodes on the other side. After two years of chemothera...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Lee, Regarding your question, radiation therapy and chemotherapy can be administered simultaneously. It is important to take advantage of the optimal treatment window and not delay therapy any further. If you experience any side effects during the treatment process, pl...[Read More] Can Radiation and Chemotherapy Be Combined for Cancer Treatment?
Understanding Ear Tumors: What Could a Soft Lump in Your Ear Mean?
Ear tumor Doctor, I have a soft lump at the entrance of my right ear canal. When I press on it, it flattens, and I feel a small hard lump inside that seems to move. When I release the pressure, it expands back into a lump. Could this be ear canal cancer? I have researched a lot, ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Cheng Cheng, Regarding your symptoms, please visit an otolaryngology specialist for evaluation. The doctor will perform a physical examination and further confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for reaching out for consultation. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng Department of Ra...[Read More] Understanding Ear Tumors: What Could a Soft Lump in Your Ear Mean?
Understanding Movable Lumps in the Armpit: What to Do Next?
There is a hard lump in the armpit? There is a hard lump in my armpit about the size of a BB pellet that moves around. I discovered it about three years ago, and recently I squeezed it, but it burst and disappeared. I would like to know what the implications might be and what I s...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding your symptoms, please visit a surgical specialist for evaluation. The doctor will perform a physical examination and further confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for reaching out for consultation. Changhua Hospital cares about you. Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, Department of Rad...[Read More] Understanding Movable Lumps in the Armpit: What to Do Next?
Differences Between Erbitux and Vectibix in Stage IV Colorectal Cancer Treatment
The differences between Erbitux (cetuximab) and Vectibix (panitumumab) lie primarily in their molecular structure, indications, and specific mechanisms of action. Erbitux is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and is primarily...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. It is usually necessary to check for BRAF mutations. 2. Both options have similar efficacy, so there is no particular preference for one over the other; it is recommended to discuss any further questions in detail with your treating physician.[Read More] Differences Between Erbitux and Vectibix in Stage IV Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Understanding Hard Lumps on Thigh: Tumor or Lymph Node Concerns?
There are many hard lumps on the thigh? About 2 to 3 years ago, I discovered that there are approximately 0.5 to 1.5 cm nodules in the deeper layer of the skin on my thigh (there might be around 10 in total on both legs, and they do not move). I have read various articles, and mo...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
You can see a general surgeon or a plastic surgeon...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps on Thigh: Tumor or Lymph Node Concerns?
Understanding Lymph Nodes: Common Concerns and Symptoms Explained
Continuing from question #134543? I apologize for my concerns, so I want to clarify a few points. Please don't take it the wrong way. 1. Is it normal for lymph nodes to be about the size of a peanut? 2. If I caused inflammation and swelling by pressing on it, will applyin...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. Considered as; 2. Will not; 3. Most are; 4. I recommend you see a dermatologist,...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes: Common Concerns and Symptoms Explained
Choosing Between Erbitux and Vectibix for Stage IV Colon Cancer
Targeted therapy options for stage IV colorectal cancer? In the case of stage IV colorectal cancer, both Erbitux (cetuximab) and Vectibix (panitumumab) require RAS gene testing to ensure there are no mutations before they can be used. What are the differences between the two? How...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Regarding your inquiry, the National Health Insurance has specific reimbursement regulations: 1. Cetuximab (e.g., Erbitux): a. For the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer: i. First-line treatment for patients with RAS wild-type metastatic colorect...[Read More] Choosing Between Erbitux and Vectibix for Stage IV Colon Cancer
Do High Platelet Counts in Children and Adults Require Medication?
Do I need to take medication to control my platelet count? Hello Doctor, my daughter was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease last June when she was just six months old. Her platelet count peaked at 1,000,000/mm³. By August of last year, it had dropped to 610,000, and her pediatrician...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Regarding the first question, I am not a pediatrician (I am a hematologist specializing in adult medicine), so I cannot provide an answer regarding issues related to infants. As for the second question, although your wife's platelet count is slightly elevated, it stil...[Read More] Do High Platelet Counts in Children and Adults Require Medication?
Understanding Lymph Nodes: When to Worry About Swelling
Is it lymphatic? Hello, Dr. Hu. Here's the situation: About two weeks ago, I had a cold, and then I experienced swelling and pain below my jaw. The doctor said it was lymphadenitis, and after taking medication for a week, the swelling subsided. However, at that time, I notic...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It sounds like it is advisable not to constantly pinch or stimulate it; just observe it instead.[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes: When to Worry About Swelling
Understanding Swelling in the Neck and Armpit: When to See an Oncologist
Swelling in the neck and armpit? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a situation I noticed earlier. When I palpated my neck, I felt that the skin on both sides had different elevations; the left side seems slightly raised, but I can't feel a distinct lump. Additionally, ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Could it be that long-term poor posture has caused asymmetry in the musculoskeletal muscles of the left and right shoulders? It is recommended to consult an orthopedic specialist or a rehabilitation physician.[Read More] Understanding Swelling in the Neck and Armpit: When to See an Oncologist
Understanding Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Questions About Swelling
Continuing from question #133267? Dr. Chen, I apologize for bothering you, but I am very worried and have been seeking your advice. To provide additional context: the suspected lymph node is located deep in the left neck, near the clavicle, and I can only feel it by raising my sh...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Dear Dr. Chen, I apologize for continuously seeking your advice due to my concerns. To provide additional context: the suspected lymph node is located deep in the left neck, near the clavicle, and I can only feel it by raising my shoulder. I would like to ask you the following...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Questions About Swelling
Understanding Adrenal Tumor Testing: Common Questions and Concerns
Regarding the question about 134340? I apologize for not understanding the follow-up question regarding the testing for adrenal tumors. I am unsure why it was deleted, as I was asking the same doctor, or perhaps I mistakenly selected the wrong doctor and it was misunderstood. I g...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Regarding questions about diet and laboratory values, it is more appropriate to consult a nutritionist.[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Tumor Testing: Common Questions and Concerns
Understanding Adrenal Incidentalomas: Functionality and Follow-Up Care
Adrenal incidentaloma Dear Doctor, Last year in June and July, I consulted you regarding an adrenal gland tumor. Later, I went to the hospital and saw an endocrinologist who confirmed through a CT scan that I have a 2.56 cm tumor. The doctor arranged for blood tests and urine t...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The initial test results may be influenced by oral steroids (false positives). It is usually recommended to monitor the values regularly. If the second test results are still abnormal, further examinations will be suggested. For detailed answers, please consult your attending phy...[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Incidentalomas: Functionality and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Lumps in Armpit Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Help
There is a hard lump in the axillary lymph nodes? Hello Doctor, I recently discovered a round, movable lump under my armpit. It is not painful, but when I squeeze my armpit or wear thick clothing, it feels slightly bruised. I initially didn't pay much attention to it, but th...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to see a dermatologist.[Read More] Understanding Lumps in Armpit Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Help
Understanding Tongue Symptoms: Should You Worry About Oral Cancer?
I have noticed a sore or ulcer on one side of my tongue in the past couple of days, and I'm concerned whether this could be a precursor to tongue cancer? Question 1: I noticed a small indentation on one side of my tongue over the past couple of days. The wound doesn't l...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the late reply (I was abroad for 8 days). I have looked at the pictures you uploaded to Google Photos. This does not resemble the tongue cancer I commonly see; it appears to be just an ulcer. Please don't worry too much, and focus on eating more fruits...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Symptoms: Should You Worry About Oral Cancer?
Is Eyelid Twitching Linked to Tumors? Understanding the Connection
Is there a connection between eyelid twitching and tumors? Last February, my left eyelid started twitching. It wasn't continuous, but it happened multiple times every day, several times at once. Initially, I didn't think much of it, but soon after, I discovered that I h...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be a coincidence or a psychological effect; otherwise, it could indicate an issue with the brain (such as a brain tumor, etc.).[Read More] Is Eyelid Twitching Linked to Tumors? Understanding the Connection
Understanding Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a hard lump in the armpit? In the past, I experienced itching and swelling in my armpit from mosquito bites. Recently, I suddenly felt a hard lump in the same area, approximately 1 cm x 0.5 cm in size. It is oval-shaped, without redness or swelling, and it feels neither ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is likely just granulation tissue left from bites and scratching, so there is no need to worry too much. Avoid touching or squeezing it frequently, as this could lead to re-inflammation and infection.[Read More] Understanding Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice