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 Oncology
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
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 Oncology
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 Oncology
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
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 Oncology
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 Oncology
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 Oncology
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 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 Oncology
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 Oncology
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
Understanding Eosinophil Levels and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
Blood and lymph node issues? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you some questions regarding my blood. Recently, I experienced chest tightness and went to the emergency room where I had a complete blood count and white blood cell differential. I found that my eosinophil (eos) coun...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If the white blood cell count is normal but the differential shows a slight elevation, and specifically if eosinophils are elevated, there are many potential causes (such as allergies, medications, dermatitis, etc.). It is recommended to follow up in 3 to 6 months.[Read More] Understanding Eosinophil Levels and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
Understanding HER2 Positive Results in Breast Cancer: A Pathology Report Explained
I have undergone a total mastectomy of the right breast. Below is the pathology report. Before the surgery, the doctor mentioned that I was classified as Luminal A, but upon reviewing the report, I see that HER2 is positive. Will this change my classification to Luminal B after t...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
1. The growth of cancer cells is polymorphic, meaning that the morphology of cancer cells in different areas varies. Since the preoperative biopsy only samples a small portion of the tumor, there may be discrepancies with the actual tumor morphology. Therefore, the subsequent pat...[Read More] Understanding HER2 Positive Results in Breast Cancer: A Pathology Report Explained
Chronic Throat Pain and Swelling: Could It Be Cancer?
I have had a sore throat for two years after experiencing gastroesophageal reflux? I have had a sore throat for two years and difficulty swallowing. This week, my entire neck has swollen to the point where I can't feel my chin. Could this possibly be cancer?
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is recommended to first see a gastroenterologist for an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy to check for any issues.[Read More] Chronic Throat Pain and Swelling: Could It Be Cancer?
Understanding Hard Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Hello doctor, I have a hard lump in my right armpit that feels oval-shaped. It does not hurt when pressed and does not move. Since it is located where I have just started to grow armpit hair, it appears a bit grayish in the center. I'm not...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If there has been no significant increase for over a year, the likelihood of malignancy is very low. It is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry About Potential Tumors
Swelling in the neck? Hello, doctor. About a year ago, I discovered a lump in my neck, located near my jaw. One is round and the other is irregularly shaped. I have undergone ultrasound and CT scans at the hospital. The doctor said the round part has not increased in size during ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Ultrasound and CT scans are unable to detect anything, which may just be benign tissue or a psychological effect. It is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry About Potential Tumors
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry About Unusual Growths
Swelling in the neck? Hello, doctor. About a year ago, I discovered a lump in my neck, located near the jawline. One is round and the other has an irregular shape. I went to the hospital for an ultrasound and a CT scan. The doctor said that the round part has not increased in siz...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Ultrasound and CT scans did not reveal any findings, which may indicate benign tissue or psychological factors. It is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Worry About Unusual Growths
Understanding Lateral Thigh Lumps: Potential Causes and Concerns
Lateral thigh mass? I discovered this incidentally while showering, and I can only feel it when standing. It has been present for about a month. The tumor is quite superficial and relatively flat, but it has a diameter of at least 3 cm. It is immovable, harder than the surroundin...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The outer sides of both thighs are symmetrical and firmer than the surrounding muscle tissue, which is likely due to the greater trochanter (a normal bone structure). It's advisable not to worry too much.[Read More] Understanding Lateral Thigh Lumps: Potential Causes and Concerns
Understanding Painful Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Attention
There is a lump in the armpit? Hello doctor, recently I have noticed a 0.5 cm dark hard lump under my left armpit, which is painful when pressed, and it feels like the lump is larger internally. 1. Since childhood, I have often experienced lymphadenopathy due to irregular sleep p...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is likely folliculitis or a sebaceous cyst. It is recommended to observe for a few days (get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and keep the underarm area dry and clean). If there is no improvement, consider seeing a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Painful Lumps in the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Hard Lumps Underarm: When to Seek Medical Attention
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Hello Doctor, recently I have noticed a 0.5 cm dark hard lump under my left armpit, which is painful when pressed, and it feels like the lump extends deeper. 1. Since childhood, I have often experienced lymphadenopathy due to irregular sleep pa...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps Underarm: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Elevated Mono Levels and Lymph Node Swelling: What You Need to Know
Blood tests and lymphadenopathy? Hello Doctor, a few days ago I had a blood test and found that my monocyte count is 11.4, which exceeds the normal range. I would like to know what issues I might be facing. Background: This series of blood tests was conducted because I was diag...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
In a complete blood count (CBC), it is sufficient to monitor whether the WBC, HB, and PLT are within the normal range. Other white blood cell differentials may vary in elevation or decrease depending on physiological conditions. For example, monocytes may slightly increase during...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Mono Levels and Lymph Node Swelling: What You Need to Know
Seeking a Second Opinion for Thymic Cancer Treatment Options
The specialty for a second opinion on thymic cancer? I underwent a thymoma resection surgery in early January this year. Initially, it was estimated that I would not need any further radiotherapy or chemotherapy after the surgery, but the pathology report indicated metastasis. Th...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If it is only a local metastasis, radiation therapy may be sufficient; however, if there is distant or multi-organ metastasis, chemotherapy is required. It is advisable to consult an oncologist for a second opinion.[Read More] Seeking a Second Opinion for Thymic Cancer Treatment Options
Should I Worry About a Neck Lump? Understanding Potential Risks and Next Steps
A lump has appeared in the neck since October of last year? About last October, I discovered a lump in the groove between my ear and jaw. It is now shaped like a flat oval, approximately the size of a one-dollar coin in diameter and about the width of my index fingernail to the f...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be some benign lymph nodes (or nodules, lipomas) that are hardened or calcified. Observation is recommended. If there is subsequent enlargement or an increase in number, then a consultation with a hematologist-oncologist may be warranted.[Read More] Should I Worry About a Neck Lump? Understanding Potential Risks and Next Steps