Understanding a Pain-Free Skin Bump: Possible Causes and Concerns
There is a painless lump under the skin? Recently, I discovered a small bump under the skin, about the size of a pimple. It is skin-colored, does not appear red, and is not painful. When I pull the skin, the bump moves along with it. Could you please tell me what this might be?
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It should just be a benign subcutaneous tissue or a subcutaneous lipoma, such as a comedo, etc.[Read More] Understanding a Pain-Free Skin Bump: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding HPV Persistence and Cancer Risks After Treatment
The recurrence rate of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)? Hello, I am a patient with HPV type 16 throat cancer who has completed chemoradiation. My doctor has confirmed that the tumor is no longer visible. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. Will the HPV in my body still be...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
1. P16 is just one type of protein expression associated with HPV infection, and its significance in head and neck cancer is that patients who are P16 positive tend to have a better prognosis (for example, they respond better to chemoradiation compared to other causes such as smo...[Read More] Understanding HPV Persistence and Cancer Risks After Treatment
Understanding the Continuous Decline in White Blood Cell Count: A Concern
The white blood cell count has been continuously decreasing over the past four years? Hello Dr. Hu, in recent years, my white blood cell count has been continuously decreasing: around 3300 in 2020, about 2800 in 2023, and approximately 1900 in 2024. My platelet count is also low,...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If there have been no signs of infection (such as a cold, etc.) in the recent three months, or if you have taken certain oral medications (such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory pain relievers, etc.), and are experiencing fatigue and oral ulcers, it is recommended to consult a rh...[Read More] Understanding the Continuous Decline in White Blood Cell Count: A Concern
Uneven Nipple Shape and Hardness: Should You Be Concerned?
The hardness and shape of the nipples on either side are different? A month or two ago, I suddenly noticed that the shapes of my nipples are different; the left one is round while the right one is oval, although I'm not sure if they were always different. Recently, I've...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may simply be a visual asymmetry caused by breast development during puberty or menstruation. If there are no palpable tumors or signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling, or pain, observation is sufficient.[Read More] Uneven Nipple Shape and Hardness: Should You Be Concerned?
Life After Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Navigating Recovery and Daily Activities
Life During Recovery from Myeloid Leukemia Hello Dr. Hu, I was diagnosed with M3 type acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) in January. After six months of treatment (induction + consolidation), my genetic testing is now negative, and my white blood cell count (5000) and platelet co...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
After the treatment, you can resume your normal lifestyle and diet.[Read More] Life After Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Navigating Recovery and Daily Activities
Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Inguinal mass Three weeks ago, I discovered a hard lump about 1 centimeter in diameter on the left side of my groin where it connects to the thigh. The shape feels round or oval, and it is not painful when pressed. It does not move much, and it is difficult to feel unless I press...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be lymph nodes or other benign tissues (such as lipomas), and observation is sufficient.[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Is That Bump Near My Anus a Cause for Concern?
There is a lump at the anal opening? Hello doctor, today while I was showering, I felt a small round lump at the anal opening. It doesn't hurt when I press on it, and I can't feel it much. I took a picture with my phone, and it looks the same color as the anus. Should I...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It should just be normal glands or tissue, so there's no need to worry.[Read More] Is That Bump Near My Anus a Cause for Concern?
Can People with Liver Hemangiomas Take Dietary Supplements?
If someone has a hepatic hemangioma, is it safe to take dietary supplements? Hello, can individuals with hepatic hemangiomas consume dietary supplements such as collagen, bitter melon peptides, fish oil, natto red yeast rice, lutein, probiotics, energy worm enzyme, B vitamins, an...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Yes, but it is recommended to consume in moderation.[Read More] Can People with Liver Hemangiomas Take Dietary Supplements?
Understanding Left Supraclavicular Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
Swelling in the left supraclavicular fossa? Hello, doctor. I have swelling on the left side of my neck, approximately in the area of the supraclavicular fossa. It is not painful or itchy, but I can feel two firm lumps when I press on it. Should I seek medical attention? Which spe...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be some benign subcutaneous tumors (such as lipomas, lymph nodes, tendon tumors, etc.), and observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Left Supraclavicular Swelling: When to Seek Medical Advice
Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
For HER2-positive breast cancer, after one year of treatment with trastuzumab (Herceptin), it is important to evaluate the patient's individual situation, including the response to treatment and any potential side effects. Continuing treatment may be recommended based on the...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is recommended to consider the following options: 1. The PET scan shows a very faint residual lesion in the left chest wall; should consideration be given to resecting the residual lesion to enhance treatment efficacy? 2. Continue maintenance therapy with anti-cancer treatment...[Read More] Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
Understanding Recurrent Lumps Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Solutions
Three lumps in the right armpit? Hello Doctor, starting around November of last year, I noticed 2 to 3 lumps under my right armpit. They are painful when pressed and have been gradually increasing in size. At that time, I visited a breast surgery clinic, and the doctor suspected ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be folliculitis or eczema. It is recommended to see a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon. Please note: this issue is outside my area of expertise![Read More] Understanding Recurrent Lumps Under the Right Armpit: Causes and Solutions
Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Please ask your questions regarding CBC blood test data? Hello, Doctor! I have had a unique constitution since childhood, unable to consume supplements, which usually leads to random growths. I have a surgical history of six procedures: 1. Facial lipoma 2. Adenotonsillar hypertro...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
From the initial examination values, it indeed appears to be iron deficiency anemia; however, if there are concerns, it is advisable to consult a hematologist or a specialist in immunology and rheumatology. PS: 1. Does short sleep duration and staying up late affect CBC results...[Read More] Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Abdominal ascites examination? Hello, doctor. The hospital said there are multiple tumors in the abdomen and also ascites, with a slightly elevated inflammatory index. They suspect there may be issues with the ovaries and peritoneum. They performed an ascitic fluid analysis, and ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Yes, cancer examinations follow a standard procedure and require a certain amount of time. Initially, non-invasive tests (which have low risk, are easier to perform, and have fewer complications) are prioritized. If a clear diagnosis is not established, then invasive tests (which...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
The CYFRA 21-1 level is elevated in the health checkup? Hello, doctor. After my full body check-up today, my CYFRA21-1 level was 2.57, while the normal range on the report is 2.37, exceeding it by 0.2 (I have a smoking history of about 12 years, I'm 31 years old, and there i...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
After the chest X-ray is completed, if there are any abnormalities, consider a self-paid low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. Note: Based on smoking history and medical history, this individual belongs to a low-risk group for lung cancer; however, it is still recommended to co...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Occasional dizziness and headaches; elevated vitamin B12 levels? Hello, my recent blood test results are as follows: Complete Blood Count I (eight items) RBC 4.64, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) PLATELET 496, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) MPV 8.9, Complete Blood Coun...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
1. If platelet count is elevated (>400K), it is recommended to follow up in 3-6 months. If it remains elevated (>400K), it is advisable to consult a hematologist. 2. Elevated vitamin B12 levels do not cause headaches or dizziness. 3. If kidney function is impaired (elevat...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Impact of Pregnancy on Tumor Markers
The annual company health check-up included tumor marker screening, and the CA 19-9 level was reported at 50? Recently, I had a health check-up at the hospital at the end of March, during which tumor marker screening was performed. Last week, the hospital informed me that my CA 1...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
CA 19-9 can also be elevated in some benign conditions, such as gastroenteritis, pancreatitis, and even bronchitis. It is recommended to follow up in 3-6 months. If the levels remain persistently and abnormally elevated, consider consulting a hematologist or a gastroenterologist ...[Read More] Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Impact of Pregnancy on Tumor Markers
Understanding Underarm Lumps: Causes and Concerns About Pus
There is a small hard lump inside the armpit that produces pus when pressed? Hello Doctor, 1. About a month ago, I noticed a pimple-like bump on the surface of my armpit, which disappeared after a while. However, I later noticed a round, firm lump about 0.5-1 cm in size inside ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be some pustules, folliculitis, or acne; observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Underarm Lumps: Causes and Concerns About Pus
Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Elevated CEA levels? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire: "A family member had a CEA level of 3.6 on December 11, 2023, at the time of diagnosis with stage III breast cancer. Surgery was performed on January 3, 2024, but during the follow-up appointment three months later ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The normal range for CEA is 0-5. The values are interpreted by the machine. If the result is within the normal range (<5) and there are no significant abnormalities in imaging, it is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Understanding Breast Lumps in Teenage Boys: Causes and Concerns
Nipple lump I am a high school sophomore, and previously in middle school, I discovered a hard lump in my chest. After a physician's examination, the result was gynecomastia. Recently, I have been feeling that the hard lump on my right chest seems to have grown a bit larger....
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is likely just gynecomastia. It is advised not to keep pressing on it; observation is sufficient. If you have never seen an endocrinologist before, it is recommended to get checked to see if the gynecomastia is caused by a pituitary tumor.[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps in Teenage Boys: Causes and Concerns
Can You Get Cancer from Contact with Breast Cancer Discharge?
If the nose accidentally comes into contact with breast cancer secretions, is there a risk of infection? Hello doctor: If my nose accidentally comes into contact with the secretions (such as blood or other fluids) from a breast cancer patient (a relative), is there a risk of bein...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
No, cancer is not contagious, so there is no need to panic excessively.[Read More] Can You Get Cancer from Contact with Breast Cancer Discharge?