Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
For breast cancer staged as 1A N0(i) M0 after complete surgical resection, the need for chemotherapy or targeted therapy depends on several factors, including the tumor's hormone receptor status (estrogen and progesterone receptors), HER2 status, and the patient's overa...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Miss LISA, I have received your letter and appreciate the detailed information you provided. Here is a summary of the findings: 1. Your friend has Stage IA breast cancer, not in situ carcinoma. 2. Tumor characteristics: the tumor measures ≤ 1 mm, with three foci. 3. Lymph ...[Read More] Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
Swollen Lymph Node: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
The lymph nodes are slightly swollen? Hello Doctor: I have a slightly swollen lymph node in my left axilla, and it has been like this for a while. Recently, it has been a bit painful when I press on it. I’ve been checking it periodically to see if it would go down. After a week, ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Meng Meng / 21 years old / Female Hello: 1. Is there anything to be concerned about? A: It is advisable to check for infections or breast issues that may be causing lymphadenopathy. 2. Which department should I consult? A: General Surgery. Happy New Year, Taoyuan Hospital ...[Read More] Swollen Lymph Node: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Breast cancer issues? Hello Doctor: My mother has stage III breast cancer that has metastasized to the lymph nodes. She underwent surgery for breast and lymph node removal but has not received chemotherapy. Currently, her blood tests show normal CEA levels, but one item, the cyto...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Regarding these questions, I am unable to provide answers because 1. The person who ordered the blood tests for those specific markers is responsible for interpreting their significance. Moreover, whether a tumor has recurred cannot be determined solely by elevated tumor m...[Read More] Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations: When to Worry About Tumors
Physical condition Hello, doctor. Recently, for about a week, around noon, my body temperature rises to 36.8-37.2°C. Sometimes I feel a bit warm, but by 8 or 9 PM, my temperature returns to 36.6-36.8°C. I have had blood tests done, and the results are normal (cholesterol and trig...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Body temperature can change in response to external environmental temperatures; for instance, higher temperatures at noon can lead to relatively higher body temperatures, and vice versa. A body temperature exceeding 38°C or below 36°C is clinically significant (indicating fever o...[Read More] Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations: When to Worry About Tumors
Understanding Neck Lumps: Concerns About Potential Tumors in Smokers
Neck issues My dad has been smoking and chewing betel nut for about ten years. Recently, he noticed a small hard lump on the back of his neck that cannot be moved. Today, he mentioned that another small lump has appeared on the same side, both are less than 2 centimeters and not ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to see an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: Concerns About Potential Tumors in Smokers
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling Below the Earlobe: Causes and Concerns
Lymphadenopathy below the earlobe? Doctor, I have a lymph node swelling in the right side of my neck, just below the earlobe, that feels about 1 cm in size, roughly the size of a mung bean, and has a hardness similar to the tip of my nose. Recently, I have been experiencing persi...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
I recommend that you also have your left ear examined by an otolaryngologist. Based on your description, it is possible that frequent ear cleaning has led to an inner ear infection, resulting in enlarged lymph nodes behind the ear. It is advisable to first address the issues of t...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling Below the Earlobe: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Attention
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Hello doctor, a few days ago I developed a large hard lump under my left armpit, approximately the size of two finger joints, located just below the armpit and closer to the chest. It has been painful enough to wake me up at night. Over the pas...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It's just an abscess; it will heal once the pus is drained.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Attention
Red Dots on Forearms: Should You Worry About Blood Disorders?
Small red spots appearing on the skin of both forearms may raise concerns about a possible malignant hematological condition? Hello doctor, recently I have noticed some small red spots on the forearms of both hands. The number is not too many, with no more than three spots on eac...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The quantity is too small; if it were caused by a malignant disease, the numbers would typically be very high (involving the entire lower limb and spreading to the lower abdomen, with symptoms such as gum bleeding, etc.). Therefore, it is recommended to simply observe.[Read More] Red Dots on Forearms: Should You Worry About Blood Disorders?
Understanding Groin Bumps: Potential Causes and Concerns
Lump in the groin? Three months ago, I had unprotected sex with my partner but did not ejaculate inside. Now, I have a bump in my groin area that oozed yellowish fluid after being squeezed, and it hasn't healed yet. There are many fleas in my workplace, so I can't deter...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The rash associated with HIV is typically systemic rather than localized, and since the bumps you described are purulent, they are likely just pustules and other subcutaneous tissue infections. It is advisable to monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Groin Bumps: Potential Causes and Concerns
Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Inguinal hard lump? There is a hard lump in the groin area that is 3-4 cm long, which is painful when pressed and also hurts when walking due to friction. This occurs almost every month around the time of menstruation, with similar lumps appearing near the labia and under the arm...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that.[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor
Inguinal hard lump? There is a hard lump about 3-4 cm long in the groin area that hurts when pressed and also causes pain when walking due to friction. This occurs almost every month around the time of menstruation, with similar lumps appearing near the labia and under the armpit...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to see a gynecologist. Note: The groin lump that changes with the menstrual cycle may be due to endometriosis. The lump in the armpit that also changes with the menstrual cycle could simply be caused by heat or may be related to inflammatory conditions such as a...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Stage IV Astrocytoma: Survival Rates and Post-Surgery Care
A family member has been diagnosed with stage IV astrocytoma, and the doctor has given a prognosis of only 1.5 years left? Hello Dr. Lai, my family member has been diagnosed with a brain tumor (Grade IV astrocytoma), and the doctor has informed us that there is only about a year ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
The first question is unclear, and I cannot provide advice based on it. For the second question, please avoid consuming irritating foods such as spicy, greasy, fried foods, and stewed dishes with old ginger and Chinese cabbage. For more detailed information, you may consult a nut...[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Astrocytoma: Survival Rates and Post-Surgery Care
The Connection Between Tumors, Immunity, and Work Stress Explained
The relationship between tumors (cancer), immunity, and stress? It is commonly said that tumors are related to immunity, and that work-related stress can lead to a decrease in immune function. As a researcher, I am constantly thinking of new ideas and often work longer hours than...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. He / 44 years old / Male 1. Enjoys work 2. Does not consider work-related stress significant 3. Immunity only decreases due to prolonged stress Wishing you enjoyment in your work, even when facing stress. Taoyuan Hospital Dr. Chen Si-Rong Thank you.[Read More] The Connection Between Tumors, Immunity, and Work Stress Explained
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Thyroid Cancer Patients
Lymphadenopathy of the posterior cervical region? Hello Doctor: I am a thyroid cancer patient (currently in stage I) and underwent a total thyroidectomy at the end of October this year. I am currently awaiting radioactive iodine treatment. At the same time, I have been dealing wi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Simon / 24 years old / Male Hello: You underwent a total thyroidectomy at the end of October this year and are currently awaiting radioactive iodine treatment. Therefore, you should have already undergone the I-131 scan post-surgery, which has confirmed that the lymph nodes you ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Thyroid Cancer Patients
Understanding a Painless Lump Near the Collarbone: What You Should Know
There is a protrusion near the clavicle on the left shoulder? Two days ago, I accidentally adjusted my bra straps and felt a lump. It is noticeable, but it doesn't hurt or itch. I'm very worried that I might have developed a tumor.
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
You can check your breasts and armpits for any lumps. If there are none, it is advisable to monitor the situation for a period of time. If the lumps do not continue to grow, they are usually benign masses (such as lipomas, etc.). However, if there is an increase in size, it is re...[Read More] Understanding a Painless Lump Near the Collarbone: What You Should Know
Why Nasopharyngeal Cancer Markers Rise After 96-Hour Chemotherapy?
The index for nasopharyngeal carcinoma is higher than the pre-treatment levels 96 hours after chemotherapy? Nasopharyngeal carcinoma stage 3, after two months of concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by three consecutive months of chemotherapy for 96 hours each month, the nasopha...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The nasopharyngeal carcinoma index refers to the levels of EBV DNA titers. It is advisable to discuss this in detail with your attending physician.[Read More] Why Nasopharyngeal Cancer Markers Rise After 96-Hour Chemotherapy?
Could Your Symptoms Indicate Nasopharyngeal Cancer?
Is it possible to have nasopharyngeal carcinoma? Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing symptoms of catching a cold about once a year. Almost every time I have a cold, I suffer from severe nasal congestion, which suddenly leads to intense pain and numbness in the left side of my...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Zhe, 33 years old, male. Hello! 1. In this situation, you can go to an otolaryngologist for a nasopharyngeal cancer examination. 2. Can this cancer present with these symptoms? A: Nerve compression may cause numbness; however, severe pain is rare. Wishing you a speedy recovery. T...[Read More] Could Your Symptoms Indicate Nasopharyngeal Cancer?
Understanding Swelling in the Right Neck: Possible Causes and Concerns
Swelling in the right neck? Hello Doctor: Last Friday morning, I woke up to find two lumps in the middle of my right neck. Initially, they felt similar to a calf muscle cramp, swollen and painful. When I visited the clinic that evening, one of the lumps had merged into a larger m...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Miss: 1. If nasopharyngeal carcinoma has metastasized, the lump will not disappear with medication. 2. All tumor diagnoses are primarily based on pathology reports. A few are diagnosed through visual examination, unless the tumor has progressed to the point of ulceratio...[Read More] Understanding Swelling in the Right Neck: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Elevated Ca-125 Levels in Endometrial and Ovarian Cancer
Elevated Ca-125 levels? Hello, doctor. My mother (57, postmenopausal) experienced bleeding a few months ago and underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C). Afterward, she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer and underwent surgery to remove her uterus, ovaries, and lymph nodes....
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Miss Joan: Could you please discuss your concerns (including medications and examinations) with your mother's attending physician, and inquire whether a PET scan is necessary? If you are still unable to clarify your doubts, you are welcome to prepare the necessary docu...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Ca-125 Levels in Endometrial and Ovarian Cancer
Red, Painful Lump in Armpit: When to See a Doctor?
A painful, red lump in the armpit? I suddenly felt pain in my lower abdomen, and upon inspection, I noticed a swollen, red, and painful area that does not move, but there is no pus. Which specialty should I consult for this issue? Does my low water intake have any relation to thi...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, the physician cannot provide treatment without a personal examination. Please refer to similar questions in this field, and you may inquire further about lymph node surgery with your attending physician. Edema is related to the number of lymph nodes removed, and it is advi...[Read More] Red, Painful Lump in Armpit: When to See a Doctor?