Understanding Recurrent Sinus Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Risks
Why does one keep developing sinus cancer? Doctor: Hello~~~ My father previously had sinus cancer and underwent two surgeries to successfully remove it. However, recently, he has discovered cancer in the forehead area, near the eyebrows, and it has been causing persistent pain. I...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Xiaomi: This situation likely indicates that residual cancer cells have regrown. If surgery is not an option, we should consider radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Wishing you a smooth treatment process.[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Sinus Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Risks
Managing Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Treatment Options and Costs in Taiwan
Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) DEAR DOCTOR, My father is 63 years old and living in Hong Kong. Last year, he was diagnosed with a gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) in the small intestine, which caused severe bleeding, necessitating an urgent resection of the ileum. Af...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Dear Phonix: If your father is a citizen of the Republic of China and has paid his general health insurance fees regularly, he is certainly covered under the health insurance program. Our General Health Bureau will approve GLEEVEC for metastatic GIST after physicians submit a for...[Read More] Managing Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Treatment Options and Costs in Taiwan
Understanding Muscle Tumors: Late-Stage Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Muscle tumor Hello, my grandfather has a muscle tumor located in his groin area, which was discovered when it had already reached a size of 5x9 cm. The doctor said it is in the advanced stage and has now spread. Is there really no way to treat it?
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
It should be a malignant sarcoma. If it has already metastasized, chemotherapy can be attempted, but generally, the effectiveness is limited. Sorry.[Read More] Understanding Muscle Tumors: Late-Stage Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Hard Lump Under Chin: What You Need to Know About Possible Causes
A hard, ball-shaped mass has developed near the jaw, close to the throat? It has been about three months since I noticed a lump that doesn't hurt and hasn't changed in size. It feels like a large, hard nodule located about two finger widths below my chin. I visited an E...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
It is recommended to consult a hematologist-oncologist for a fine needle aspiration cytology examination. Thank you.[Read More] Hard Lump Under Chin: What You Need to Know About Possible Causes
Is It a Tumor? Understanding Lumps and Breast Pain Concerns
Is it a tumor? Doctor: I have a small lump on my thigh (located in the indentation between my thigh and waist). It's about the size of a green bean! It hurts when I press on it. Could this be a tumor? Which department should I visit for an examination at the hospital? I'...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
A small lump about the size of a mung bean is generally not a major concern. If it continues to grow, consider consulting a hematologist at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. Regarding the inverted nipple, given your age, it does not appear to be a sign of breast cancer. If y...[Read More] Is It a Tumor? Understanding Lumps and Breast Pain Concerns
Understanding Lumps on the Neck: Causes and Concerns
There are two lumps on the neck? Hello, doctor. This week, I noticed a painless, movable lump on my neck. There are also some near my collarbone. I saw an ENT specialist yesterday, and they said it was lymphadenopathy. They mentioned that since it is movable, it should not be a c...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Is it better now? If it has worsened, please urgently go to the hematology department for a blood test. It's important, very important.[Read More] Understanding Lumps on the Neck: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Soft Tumors in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice
Tumor Dear Dr. Fan, I need your help. My son is 5 years old and has developed a soft lump on his right wrist. It doesn't hurt when pressed and can be slightly moved in all directions. I initially thought it might be a tendon tumor due to his hyperactivity, so I took him to ...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Based on your description, it doesn't seem like lymphoma; it is more likely related to a tendon issue. Veterans General Hospital, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and Chang Gung Memorial Hospital are all good options.[Read More] Understanding Soft Tumors in Children: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Small Tumor-Like Bumps Behind the Ear: What to Know
A small tumor-like protrusion behind the ear? One day, I noticed an itch on my scalp and discovered a small lump behind my ear. The texture is similar to a ganglion cyst I had on my hand during middle school. However, after a few days, the lump gradually decreased in size. Could ...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Tumors do not shrink due to the phenomenon of metastasis. Since they can shrink on their own, there is no need for concern.[Read More] Understanding Small Tumor-Like Bumps Behind the Ear: What to Know
Understanding Post-Transplant Challenges in Lymphoma Patients
Regarding lymphatic cancer after bone marrow transplantation? Hello, my father was diagnosed with lymphoma last year and has undergone several rounds of chemotherapy, but each time it was halted due to low white blood cell counts. Recently, he underwent an autologous stem cell tr...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
It's really difficult to answer. Based on what you've described, the situation is very critical, and we can only ask your father's physician to do everything possible to save him.[Read More] Understanding Post-Transplant Challenges in Lymphoma Patients
Understanding High White Blood Cell Counts: Is It Blood Cancer?
Elevated white blood cell count? Dear Doctor, My mother is 71 years old, and her health has not been very good this past week. She has been feeling lethargic and wanting to sleep all the time, which has caused us great concern. Yesterday, we finally persuaded her to go to the ho...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Concerned individual: Based on the data you provided, this is definitely blood cancer, specifically leukemia. Leukemia can be acute or chronic, and the treatment varies, but it is not necessarily a "terminal illness." In terms of diet, please refrain from eating fruits ...[Read More] Understanding High White Blood Cell Counts: Is It Blood Cancer?
Understanding Tumors and Tuberculosis: A Patient's Journey
Tumors and pulmonary tuberculosis? Hello, before the Lunar New Year, my uncle discovered a tumor-like growth under his right armpit that was painful to touch. During the New Year period, he developed two more lumps above his right clavicle. Recently, he underwent surgery at the h...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Kate: Tuberculosis can indeed present with lymphadenopathy, as mentioned in the "Treatise on the Origins and Symptoms of Various Diseases" by Chao Yuanfang from the Sui Dynasty. Since the biopsy has confirmed the diagnosis, you can take the medication as prescribed by y...[Read More] Understanding Tumors and Tuberculosis: A Patient's Journey
Neck Lump Concerns: Pain and Potential Tumor Risks Explained
If you suspect a tumor in your neck and are experiencing some pain, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. You should schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional, such as a primary care physician or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. They will perf...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Xiao Jie: Generally speaking, things that have been present for several years are usually not malignant. As for a definitive diagnosis, only a doctor can determine that after examination. I shouldn't make guesses. Take some time to read more; at least your writing should be ...[Read More] Neck Lump Concerns: Pain and Potential Tumor Risks Explained
How to Obtain Medical Records from Abroad for Tumor Diagnosis?
How to obtain medical records from abroad? During the summer two years ago, while studying abroad in the United States, I unexpectedly discovered that I had a tumor in my uterus. At that time, I did not pursue further treatment since I was overseas. Because I did not experience a...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Miss Travel Abroad: The only plan for now is to go abroad once more, to visit the original hospital and consult the original doctor for the necessary tests and reports. In fact, it would be great if there are no tumors at all; why create unnecessary worries? The general standard ...[Read More] How to Obtain Medical Records from Abroad for Tumor Diagnosis?
Understanding Painful Lumps Behind the Ear: Possible Causes and Concerns
There is a lump behind the ear? A few days ago, I felt two lumps about 1 centimeter in size behind my ear. They are tender to the touch and movable. Could this be lymphadenitis? If so, why does it feel this way? I've been quite worried these past few days. What could it be? ...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Hello: This should be lymphadenitis, and it should be resolved by now, right? Asking about fried rice likely means there is a concern about HIV, as HIV may initially present with lymphadenopathy. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Painful Lumps Behind the Ear: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Oral Health Risks: HPV, Tumors, and Persistent Pain
Difficulties in initiating conversation? Hello Doctor, in late August 2004, I had unprotected oral sex with a sex worker, which resulted in persistent pain in my mouth, throat, and tongue. I subsequently visited an otolaryngology clinic where the doctor performed a salivary exami...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Hello: Even if a virus can cause cancer, it typically takes ten to twenty years. In your case, you might want to consider herpes zoster; please consult an infectious disease specialist. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Oral Health Risks: HPV, Tumors, and Persistent Pain
Understanding Brain Cancer Symptoms Beyond Fainting
What are the symptoms of brain cancer? What are the symptoms of brain cancer? I heard from my friend that patients can easily faint. Besides fainting, what other symptoms are there? I really want to know!
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Symptoms can range from none at all to coma. It's best not to make light of the situation. Doctors are very busy.[Read More] Understanding Brain Cancer Symptoms Beyond Fainting
Could My Lymph Node Issue Be Lymphoma or Metastatic Cancer?
Could I have lymphoma or metastatic cancer? Hello Dr. Fan: Three months ago, I discovered a lump above my right clavicle that has been growing larger and harder, approximately 4 centimeters. I consulted multiple specialists, but none could determine the cause, all stating it was ...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Dear Miss Chia-Chia: Lymph node tuberculosis does not always culture Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and the pathological biopsy results should be reliable. It is essential to take anti-tuberculosis medication for a sufficient duration to achieve recovery. Please collaborate with you...[Read More] Could My Lymph Node Issue Be Lymphoma or Metastatic Cancer?
Identifying the Right Specialist for a Painful Lip Lump
A painful lump with a diameter of 1 centimeter has appeared at the corner of the mouth? You have a painful lump on the lower edge of your left lip that has been present for six months, and it is immobile upon palpation. You can also feel the lump in your oral cavity, and you have...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Oral surgery or plastic surgery.[Read More] Identifying the Right Specialist for a Painful Lip Lump
Liver Transplant: Risks for Donors and Options for Patients with Cancer
Liver transplantation My mother has cirrhosis and liver cancer. Yesterday, she underwent radiation therapy for the cancer cells. Since I am living abroad, I cannot be with her, and I have informed my sister that the cirrhosis may further endanger my mother's life. It would b...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Vegetables: Liver transplantation is really not my area of expertise; I recommend consulting a surgical team with experience in liver transplants. I apologize for that.[Read More] Liver Transplant: Risks for Donors and Options for Patients with Cancer
Finding the Right Specialist for Lymphoma Treatment: A Guide for Patients
I would like to ask you about lymphoma? I have a friend who urgently needs a physician specializing in lymphoma treatment. She is about to undergo chemotherapy, and she is only 21 years old. As a colleague, I cannot bear to see her suffer from this illness, so I want to help her ...
Dr. Fan Sheng reply Oncology
Lulu: Has your friend already visited the outpatient clinic? China Medical University Hospital should be professional enough, so please rest assured.[Read More] Finding the Right Specialist for Lymphoma Treatment: A Guide for Patients