Understanding Stable CA-199 Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Regarding the CA 19-9 levels showing no change after multiple tests? Hello Dr. Hu, I would like to ask you a question. I undergo an abdominal ultrasound every six months, and I have a routine colonoscopy and gastroscopy once a year, along with tumor marker screenings. Recently, I...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The normal range for CA 19-9 is 0-37. A value within this normal range is considered normal, so it is advised not to worry too much.[Read More] Understanding Stable CA-199 Levels: What It Means for Your Health
Switching Liver Cancer Treatment: From Lenvatinib to A+B Therapy
First-line medications for advanced liver cancer? Hello Dr. Hu, My father has been diagnosed with liver cancer that has metastasized to the bones. He has been taking Lenvatinib (Lenvima) for over two years. Recently, the National Health Insurance Administration has approved cov...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is not possible to switch from the National Health Insurance (NHI) Reza Wa to NHI A+B according to the regulations of NHI coverage. However: 1. If Reza Wa is still effective, it is recommended to continue using it; 2. If Reza Wa is deemed ineffective, you may consider switchin...[Read More] Switching Liver Cancer Treatment: From Lenvatinib to A+B Therapy
Understanding Eosinophil Levels: Implications for CML and Lymphoma
Eosinophil percentage In recent years, blood tests have shown that the white blood cell count typically ranges from 4,500 to 7,000. The percentage of basophils is between 0.3% and 0.9% (0-1%). I would like to know if having results of 0.8% or 0.9% on several occasions is consider...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If the white blood cell count is normal, it is recommended to simply observe. Note: The classification of white blood cells is based on machine interpretation, and the ratios can be influenced by physiological or other factors on the day of blood draw (such as blood quality, mach...[Read More] Understanding Eosinophil Levels: Implications for CML and Lymphoma
Understanding Lumps and Swellings: What You Need to Know About Lymph Nodes
Lymphadenopathy / Lymph node enlargement Hello, doctor. I just felt three small lumps above my right clavicle; they are soft and movable, and they are located close to each other. Additionally, there is a lump at the root of my right thigh that has been there for quite a while; i...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is likely just some subcutaneous soft tissue, lipomas, or lymph nodes; observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Lumps and Swellings: What You Need to Know About Lymph Nodes
Hard Lump in Inner Thigh: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
There is a hard lump on the inner thigh? Hello, about three to four days ago, I developed a hard lump on the inner thigh, approximately 4-5 centimeters in size. It is painful and immobile. Taking anti-inflammatory pain medication provides temporary relief, but I still experience ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may be a subcutaneous abscess or furuncle; if it recurs, you can consult a plastic surgeon.[Read More] Hard Lump in Inner Thigh: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Thrombocytosis: Symptoms and Implications for Health
Thrombocytosis Hello, doctor. Recently, my blood test report showed a platelet count of 51.7 *10^9/uL, while all other values were normal. Occasionally, I feel a strange sensation in my hands, as if the blood is not circulating properly. Based on this value, is it possible that I...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If the platelet count is 51.7, it is recommended to see a hematologist.[Read More] Understanding Thrombocytosis: Symptoms and Implications for Health
Understanding Abdominal Tumors: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Expect
Abdominal tumor There is a hard lump about 3 centimeters in size located to the right of the center of the navel. Initially, it was not that large and was not easily felt when lying down, but now the lump has grown and can be felt when lying down or on the side. When standing and...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may be an abdominal hernia; it is recommended to see a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Tumors: Signs, Symptoms, and What to Expect
Understanding IFE Results: Can They Rule Out Multiple Myeloma?
IFE electrophoresis analysis Hello, doctor. I am the person who inquired about multiple myeloma last time. My IFE electrophoresis results showed no monoclonal protein present. Does this mean that multiple myeloma can be ruled out? Should I be concerned about MGUS?
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Yes, multiple myeloma can be ruled out, including other plasma cell proliferative disorders (MGUS, etc.); please do not ask the same question again; if there are any issues related to testing, please discuss them with the primary physician.[Read More] Understanding IFE Results: Can They Rule Out Multiple Myeloma?
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Symptoms and Next Steps
Issues related to cervical lymph nodes and groin lymph nodes? Hello Doctor: I noticed that the lymph nodes on both sides of my groin have been enlarged for over six months. When I touch them, they feel like a whole cluster, with each node slightly enlarged. Some are oval-shaped, ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Generalized lymphadenopathy, it is recommended to see a hematologist-oncologist.[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Symptoms and Next Steps
Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights on Multiple Myeloma and Related Conditions
Blood test report issues? Hello, doctor. I was diagnosed with COVID-19 on June 10. After that, on June 25, I developed petechiae on my calves due to an immune response. I sought medical attention, and it was assessed as vasculitis. I underwent blood tests and urinalysis, all of w...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If the Beta-microglobulin and FLC ratio (kappa/lambda) are normal, the possibility of multiple myeloma can be ruled out. Gamma globulin refers to immunoglobulins in the serum and is likely related to elevated RF IgM and cryoglobulin IgM levels. Note: Considering the above values,...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights on Multiple Myeloma and Related Conditions
Understanding Persistent Pain in Lung Adenocarcinoma Treatment
Cancer treatment My mother has lung adenocarcinoma and has been on targeted therapy for two months. However, her pleuritic pain has changed from intermittent to persistent (the doctor explained that this is due to tumor pressure). I would like to ask the physician if persistent p...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The transition from intermittent pain to persistent pain may be due to tumor pressure or the ongoing progression of the disease. However, since it has only been two months since starting targeted therapy, it is recommended to wait for a 2-4 month imaging efficacy assessment (if a...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Pain in Lung Adenocarcinoma Treatment
Understanding Painful Bumps Above the Pubic Bone: When to Seek Help
Suprapubic mass Hello, I have seen similar situations in the frequently asked questions. There is a hard lump above the pubic bone that appears sometimes and sometimes not, approximately over two centimeters in size. It is painful when pressed, and the sensation when pressing the...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be normal soft tissue above the pubis (pubic symphysis), and observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps Above the Pubic Bone: When to Seek Help
Understanding Anal Issues: What Teens Should Know About Symptoms
Anal issues Hello doctor, I am 15 years old and have not had any sexual relations, but recently I noticed an unusual growth around my anal area. At first, it was small and I didn't pay much attention, but it has gradually increased in size and number, with some merging toget...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be eczema or other skin rashes around the anal area caused by dirty underwear or bed linens. It is recommended to see a general surgeon or an infectious disease specialist. Additionally, it is important to frequently change underwear and wash bed linens.[Read More] Understanding Anal Issues: What Teens Should Know About Symptoms
Understanding Hard Lumps on the Arm: Potential Tumor Concerns
There is a small hard lump on the right arm? Hello: My mother is 47 years old and has a purple lump on her right arm that feels hard. This lump has been present for 3 to 4 years; it started off small and was not given much attention, but it has gradually increased in size. There ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If the tumor has increased in size in a short period, it is recommended to consult a plastic surgeon or a general surgeon for evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps on the Arm: Potential Tumor Concerns
Understanding Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Cancer and Its Treatment Options
Stage IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma with distant metastasis? My boyfriend is from mainland China and has recently been diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma at a hospital there. The cancer has metastasized to the bilateral cervical lymph nodes, supraclavicular lymph nodes, multip...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Yes, stage IV cancer is considered incurable. The treatment goals are primarily to control the disease and extend the patient's average survival time. It is recommended to follow the physician's advice and subsequent treatment plans.[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Cancer and Its Treatment Options
Understanding Myelocytes in Blood Smears: Should You Be Concerned?
A myelocyte was observed in the blood smear? I am a student in the medical technology program. Last month, while observing my own blood smear in a hematology lab, I found a myelocyte. I went to the hospital for a blood test, and the results showed that everything was within norma...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Sometimes, when the body is in an inflammatory or acute infection stage (such as a viral infection), a small number of immature cells may be found in the peripheral blood. If the white blood cell count (WBC), hemoglobin (HB), platelet count (PLT), and other classifications are no...[Read More] Understanding Myelocytes in Blood Smears: Should You Be Concerned?
Is That Mole on Your Inner Thigh Normal? When to Seek Melanoma Screening
Melanoma I just saw a news article online about a woman with melanoma in the perineal area, and it reminded me that I have a black raised spot on the inner thigh, right in the crease between my thigh and private area, which has been there for several years. Is this normal, or sho...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
There has been no change for many years, so it should just be a common mole. Subsequent monitoring can be done to check for the following abnormalities: whether there is any elevation in the center, whether the edges have enlarged or become irregular... If there are no changes, i...[Read More] Is That Mole on Your Inner Thigh Normal? When to Seek Melanoma Screening
Is That Mole on Your Inner Thigh Normal? When to Seek Melanoma Screening
Melanoma I just saw a news article online about a woman with a melanoma in her perineum, and it reminded me that I have a black raised spot on the inner thigh, right in the crease between my thigh and intimate area, which has been there for several years. Is this normal, or shoul...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It has not changed for many years, so it should just be a common mole. You can monitor for the following abnormalities: whether there is any elevation in the center, whether the edges have enlarged or become irregular... If there are no changes, it is advisable to simply observe.[Read More] Is That Mole on Your Inner Thigh Normal? When to Seek Melanoma Screening
Understanding Rising Tumor Markers: What You Need to Know
Tumor marker issues? Hello, Doctor. Two years ago, my CA 19-9 level was 5. This year, from February to May, the levels have risen from 15 to 17, 18, and then 23. 1. I would like to know if this increase is significant. Could it be due to inflammation or something else? 2. Shoul...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Some inflammation of the bile ducts and gastrointestinal tract can cause a mild elevation of CA 19-9 (>37); however, as long as the values remain within the normal range, they are considered normal. It is advisable not to be overly anxious about this.[Read More] Understanding Rising Tumor Markers: What You Need to Know
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 Oncology
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