Understanding a Small Neck Tumor: Is It Genetic or Viral?
Inquiry about a small tumor on the left posterior side of the neck? Hello Doctor, I have noticed a small lump about 0.7 cm in diameter on the left posterior side of my neck. It feels somewhat hard, round, and has a bit of elasticity. It does not move, and pressing it firmly does ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ah Hong / 23 years old / Male Hello, 1. Is it malignant? Or is it congenital? A: If it were malignant, it wouldn't have been asymptomatic for five years. As for whether it is congenital, the answer to this question depends on your perspective. Essentially, it may not hav...[Read More] Understanding a Small Neck Tumor: Is It Genetic or Viral?
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Counts After Lymphoma Chemotherapy
About six months after chemotherapy for lymphoma, the white blood cell count has not yet returned to normal levels? Hello Dr. Hu, I was diagnosed with Burkitt lymphoma last August. After undergoing four cycles of high-dose chemotherapy, it has been about four months since my last...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It currently appears that the cause may be the antifungal tablet. If the WBC is less than 2000 and does not return to normal after 5-6 months, it may be advisable to discuss further testing with a physician.[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Counts After Lymphoma Chemotherapy
Understanding Abdominal Pain and Lumps: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Multiple areas of abdominal pain with palpable masses? Hello, doctor. For the past two weeks, I have been experiencing lower abdominal pain, which initially presented with bruising, but the bruising has subsided. Upon palpation, I can feel two lumps, each less than 1 cm in size. ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello! Regarding what you mentioned: the location of the pain changes, and when pressing on the painful spots, there is a sensation of hard lumps or nodules, along with feelings of inflammation and swelling, but when there is no pain, it is difficult to feel anything. 1. If a s...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain and Lumps: Possible Causes and Next Steps
Turmeric and Hormone Receptor Positive Breast Cancer: A Cautionary Guide
Breast cancer and curcumin? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the information available online states that turmeric contains estrogen. For patients with hormone receptor-positive conditions undergoing lactation restoration therapy, would combining turmeric affect their hormon...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
During the period of taking galactagogue medications, it is not recommended to consume turmeric-related dietary supplements.[Read More] Turmeric and Hormone Receptor Positive Breast Cancer: A Cautionary Guide
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Anemia and Its Symptoms
Abnormal test results related to red blood cells in a blood test report? Hello Dr. Chen, I am (158.5 cm / 54 kg) and have been referred to a medical center for a hysteroscopy due to uterine fibroids. The gynecologist also arranged for a blood test, and the results are as follows:...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your hemoglobin level is too low, at only 4.8, which poses a life-threatening risk. Please go to the emergency department of a large hospital as soon as possible to receive a blood transfusion; it's too late for iron supplements. After the transfusion, follow up with ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Anemia and Its Symptoms
Understanding Rising CA19-9 Levels: What It Means for Cancer Detection
Elevated CA 19-9 levels? Hello, doctor. Three years ago, my CA 19-9 level was over 5, and recently it has increased to over 15 in the last two months, and then to over 17 two months later. All of these values are within the normal range (below 37), but it seems to be rising. I wo...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Long / 37 years old / Male The normal values are within range. Don't be too hard on yourself; his name is a tumor marker, but it is also a substance naturally produced in the body, so it won't be zero. Wishing you a warm spring and good days every day. Taoyuan Hos...[Read More] Understanding Rising CA19-9 Levels: What It Means for Cancer Detection
Should You Get Your Abdominal Lumps Checked? Here's What to Know
Abdominal mass Hello Doctor: Recently, I have felt two hard lumps about 1 cm in size on the right side of my abdomen. They are not visible from the outside and can only be felt upon touch, resembling a cord with a bulge in the middle. If I press down a bit harder, it feels somewh...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
FF / 26 years old / Male General Surgery Dr. Chen Si-Rong, wishing you peace of mind and well-being.[Read More] Should You Get Your Abdominal Lumps Checked? Here's What to Know
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Lymphadenopathy-related issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions: I currently have swollen lymph nodes in both groins and the inner thighs, feeling like a string of them has enlarged. A few of them are more elongated and oval-shaped, and they are movable. Ther...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous / 21 years old / Male 1. General surgery, whether to undergo examination is based on the opinion of the physician you consult. 2. The biopsy itself does not affect the immune system, but emotional stress can have an impact on immunity. Wishing you peace of mind and ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Key Questions About Cancer Risks and Diagnosis in Oncology
Some questions I would like to confirm? Hello, Doctor. I have health anxiety and often think about many things. I hope you can provide clear answers to my questions: 1. How closely should I monitor my health if a relative has had cancer? My grandmother had stomach cancer; shoul...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. Only less than 2% of stomach cancer is hereditary; however, the causes of cancer require several conditions: 1. personal factors (such as smoking and alcohol consumption), 2. environmental factors, and 3. genetic mutations. Therefore, even if there are hereditary factors, the ...[Read More] Key Questions About Cancer Risks and Diagnosis in Oncology
Recommended Supplements for HER2+ Cancer Patients Under Targeted Therapy
My mother is HER2 positive and is currently undergoing targeted therapy. What supplements can she take? Hello Doctor, I was advised by other physicians to consult a hematologist-oncologist. I would like to ask about my mother, who is 56 years old and was diagnosed with HER2-pos...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. To reduce fatty liver, exercise and dietary control are essential; however, taking liver health supplements such as vitamin B complex or natto red yeast rice may be beneficial. 2. The use of brown rice suppressants is not recommended. 3. During targeted therapy for breast canc...[Read More] Recommended Supplements for HER2+ Cancer Patients Under Targeted Therapy
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Elevated CEA levels? Recent health check results show that my CEA level is 5.27 ng/mL. I have a smoking habit, and my chest X-ray is normal. Does this mean I have cancer? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Lin, 23 years old, male. The CEA level is 5.27 ng/mL. If the hospital's normal value is 5, then it's acceptable. Non-tumor-related conditions that can cause elevated CEA levels include smoking, peptic ulcers, gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, hypothyroidism, obstructive ja...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes Near the Ears: Causes and Concerns
Bilateral enlargement of the lymph nodes located beneath the ears? Hello Doctor: Recently, I noticed swollen lymph nodes on both sides under my ears. The left side is smaller, about 1 cm, while the right side is larger, nearly 2 cm. They feel firm and immobile, and I do not have ...
Dr. Yan Jingheng Reply:
1. Essentially, fine needle aspiration can obtain tissue and is the standard diagnostic method for lymph node diseases, with the pathology report being the definitive reference. 2. Whether the lymph node enlarges with pressure depends on the force applied; normal pressure shoul...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes Near the Ears: Causes and Concerns
Why Does My Armpit Still Feel Hard After Tumor Removal?
There is a hard lump in the armpit? I would like to ask, I had a hard lump in my armpit that was surgically removed, but why does it still feel hard when I touch it?
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Bonnie / 33 years old / Female. Although the mass has been removed, why does it still feel hard? 1. Short-term: Local inflammation has not yet healed. 2. Long-term: Local fibrosis due to surgery. It is recommended to have regular follow-ups with the original surgeon. Wishing...[Read More] Why Does My Armpit Still Feel Hard After Tumor Removal?
Can Chemotherapy Be Safely Administered to Patients with Hepatitis C?
Can a person with hepatitis C undergo chemotherapy? Dear Doctor, Good day to you. I would like to inquire whether it is highly inappropriate or potentially life-threatening to administer Docetaxel and Cyclophosphamide to a patient with Hepatitis C without first treating the Hepa...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Yes, but liver function should be closely monitored during the treatment period.[Read More] Can Chemotherapy Be Safely Administered to Patients with Hepatitis C?
Understanding Elevated Platelet Counts: What You Need to Know
Abnormally high platelet levels (increasing with each of the two tests)? Hello Doctor, three years ago I had a blood test (results below), and the only abnormal finding was a platelet count of 469. At that time, the doctor mentioned that it was fine to just monitor it. However, I...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be caused by inflammation (such as a cold). It is recommended to follow up with a blood test in three months. If the levels remain elevated, consider consulting a hematologist.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Platelet Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Anal Pain: Is It a Polyp or Anal Papilla?
Anal pain Hello doctor, recently I have been excessively cleaning after bowel movements, which has led to pain and itching around the anal area. Subsequently, I have experienced repeated injuries (skin tears), and I have now noticed a small bump (about 0 to 1 centimeter) near the...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It could be hemorrhoids; it is recommended to see a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Anal Pain: Is It a Polyp or Anal Papilla?
Understanding Small Growths Near the Anus: Health Implications and Care
A small polyp has developed at the anal opening? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to answer my question. Here’s the situation: Recently, I have been excessively wiping after bowel movements, which has caused skin irritation around the anal area, leading to pain and itching....
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Oman / 16 years old / Male. The likelihood of it being benign is higher, but it is recommended to consult a colorectal surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Wishing you good health. Dr. Chen Sih-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Small Growths Near the Anus: Health Implications and Care
Understanding Breast Pain: Could It Be a Sign of Cancer?
Recently, there has been breast pain? I'm not a doctor, but I can provide some general information. It's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The symptoms you've described, including frequent noseblee...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Regarding a 48-year-old female patient, it is recommended to undergo advanced health screenings to ensure physical and mental well-being. Dr. Chen Si-Rong from Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Breast Pain: Could It Be a Sign of Cancer?
Understanding Pancreatic Cysts: Diagnosis, Size Variations, and Treatment Options
Pancreatic cysts Hello Doctor, last July during a health check, an X-ray revealed an abnormality, so in August, I went to Hospital A for an ultrasound which found a cyst at the body and tail of the pancreas measuring approximately 1.5 cm. They advised monitoring, and in September...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. Different imaging techniques, various operators, and different interpreting physicians may introduce some measurement discrepancies. It appears to be just a cyst; observation is recommended. 2. However, if the following conditions are present, surgical removal is advised: size...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cysts: Diagnosis, Size Variations, and Treatment Options
Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Stage I Breast Cancer: Key Considerations
Post-treatment for Stage I Breast Cancer? Hello Doctor, my wife was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year at the age of 42. The pathology report after surgery is as follows: ER: 98+ PR: 98+ Her2: 2+ FISH: Negative Ki67: 9% Tumor size: 1.9 cm. During lymph node surgery, 4...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
According to the report, the type of breast cancer is associated with a low risk of recurrence. It is recommended to follow the attending physician's advice to take Tamoxifen for 5-10 years and undergo postoperative radiotherapy, with regular follow-ups. There are no dietary...[Read More] Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Stage I Breast Cancer: Key Considerations