Understanding the Health Challenges of a 90-Year-Old Cancer Patient
Grandma is 90 years old and was diagnosed with stomach cancer four and a half years ago? About two weeks ago (the last weekend before the Lunar New Year), my grandmother caught a cold around the New Year, which led to throat inflammation and swelling, making it difficult for her ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If there is a suspicion of heart problems, one can consult a cardiologist; if there is a suspicion that organ function decline (such as swallowing or coughing up phlegm) is caused by aging (dementia), one can see a neurologist.[Read More] Understanding the Health Challenges of a 90-Year-Old Cancer Patient
Understanding Tongue Base Cancer: Symptoms and Treatment Insights
Cancer Issues: Base of Tongue Cancer My father has been battling cancer for nearly three months. During the initial phase of chemotherapy, his condition was stable, and he was able to manage daily activities independently. However, on January 25th, the day after completing radiat...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
During cancer treatment, if acute changes occur, it may be due to acute complications caused by the treatment (such as infections, dehydration, or hypercalcemia, etc.). It is recommended to promptly take the patient to the emergency department for further management.[Read More] Understanding Tongue Base Cancer: Symptoms and Treatment Insights
Understanding Your Wife's Early-Stage Breast Cancer Biopsy Results
Inquire about the breast cancer tumor biopsy report issues? Hello Dr. Hu, my wife recently underwent a health check at her company, and an abnormality was found in her breast. A biopsy confirmed it to be stage I breast cancer, with the tumor size estimated at about 0.7 cm based o...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
A Ki-67 index of 60% indicates that the tumor proliferation rate is very high, suggesting that it could have grown from 0.7 cm last year to 0.9 cm this year. A Ki-67 level greater than 20% typically signifies poorly differentiated cancer, which is associated with a rapid doubling...[Read More] Understanding Your Wife's Early-Stage Breast Cancer Biopsy Results
Understanding High Platelets and Low Lymphocytes: What It Means for Your Health
Elevated platelet count and decreased lymphocyte count? I just received my health check report from December last year and noticed some red flags in the blood test results. I would like to consult Dr. Hu regarding the following: (1) I have had slightly elevated platelet counts ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
For the general public: When reviewing a blood report, it is sufficient to pay attention to whether the WBC, HB, and PLT values are within the normal range. Note: 1. WBC differential count (WBC DC) -- The percentages of Neutrophils (Seg), Lymphocytes, Eosinophils, and Basophils a...[Read More] Understanding High Platelets and Low Lymphocytes: What It Means for Your Health
Persistent Armpit Lump: When to Seek Specialist Care?
The swelling in the armpit is increasing? I developed a small hard lump the size of a mung bean under my left armpit in October, which was later surgically removed. However, starting from January 1st of this year, I began to experience noticeable pain, and the lump has been growi...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It is recommended to see a general surgeon or a plastic surgeon, as it may be folliculitis combined with cellulitis (or an abscess).[Read More] Persistent Armpit Lump: When to Seek Specialist Care?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Questions for Oncology Patients
Blood test report related questions? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you some questions. A few days ago, I noticed something unusual in my previous blood test reports. Here are the results from three blood tests: Late June - RBC 5.13, HB 14.88; Late August - RBC 4.78, HB 13.8;...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
An Hb level greater than 13 is considered normal, with fluctuations between 13 and 17 being within the normal range. Weight loss is likely attributed to anxiety; it is recommended to maintain a normal diet and a BMI (height in kg/weight in m², 18.5-24.9).[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Key Questions for Oncology Patients
Understanding a Soft Lump Above the Wrist: Possible Causes and Concerns
A raised lesion is present on the lateral side of the right wrist joint, approximately 3 centimeters above the vein? Hello Doctor, I have a concern regarding a smooth, round mass located about 3 centimeters above the wrist joint on the side of my right hand. It is approximately 1...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be a lipoma or another benign nodule (such as a tendonoma). If you continue to press on it, it could lead to localized inflammation and infection. It is recommended to simply observe it.[Read More] Understanding a Soft Lump Above the Wrist: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding White Blood Cell Counts and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
White blood cell testing issues Recent blood test results show a white blood cell count of 6,900 (normal range: 3,600-11,200), hemoglobin (HB) of 15.9 (normal range: 13.7-17), erythrocyte distribution width (EDW) of 13.0 (normal range: 11.7-15), platelet count of 260 (normal rang...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The white blood cell count is within the normal range according to the instrument's interpretation, indicating that it is normal and does not require continuous monitoring. The lymph nodes have shown no changes over the past year, suggesting a higher likelihood of being beni...[Read More] Understanding White Blood Cell Counts and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Concerns
Lymphadenopathy Consultation Hello, Dr. Hu. This year, I discovered a lump behind my ear. Six months ago, I visited an ENT specialist, and the doctor noted that it felt soft and movable. A laryngoscopy showed no abnormalities, so I was prescribed anti-inflammatory medication for ...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
If there are concerns or suspicions of a malignant tumor, one may consider undergoing a surgical lymph node biopsy at a general surgery or otolaryngology department. Non-surgical options include computed tomography (CT) scans or self-paid whole-body positron emission tomography (...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Concerns
Post-Operative Care for Abdominal Wall Fibromatosis: Dietary Guidelines
Postoperative issues related to abdominal wall fibromatosis? After surgery for a general abdominal wall fibroma, what dietary precautions should be taken during the first 1-2 weeks? How long after the surgery can chicken essence or nutritional supplements be consumed? Thank you f...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
After surgery, if appetite and physical strength return to normal, it is recommended to maintain a regular diet. However, if you wish to supplement with health products, you can generally start taking them as long as you are eating normally.[Read More] Post-Operative Care for Abdominal Wall Fibromatosis: Dietary Guidelines
Understanding Groin and Arm Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Inguinal mass and hard nodules on the lateral aspect of the upper arm? 1. I would like to ask the doctor about a hard, painless lump in the right groin area that may have been there for some time but was only recently noticed. It feels like it could be fatty tissue, is oval-shape...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be a benign lipoma or fibroma; you can consult a plastic surgeon or a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Groin and Arm Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Unexplained Fever After COVID Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Unexplained fever sensation? Hello, since recovering from COVID-19, I started experiencing tightness in my heart, chest discomfort, and a feeling of something stuck in my throat about three to four months later, specifically in the first week after my menstrual period in October....
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Some individuals may experience a feeling of fever or elevated temperature while taking iron supplements; it is recommended to increase fluid intake.[Read More] Unexplained Fever After COVID Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Post-Treatment Side Effects of Tumor Therapy: A Comprehensive Overview
Late effects related to tumor treatment? Is it possible to experience the following side effects from using lactation induction therapy for breast cancer? Bilateral myopia, bilateral dry eye syndrome, and bilateral vitreous degeneration. Prior to treatment, myopia was between 150...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Taking Fluoxetine can indeed cause blurred vision and cataracts. It is recommended to consult a pharmacist or read the medication insert thoroughly. For more information, you can refer to the following link: https://www1.ndmctsgh.edu.tw/pharm/pic/medinsert/005FEM01.pdf or search ...[Read More] Post-Treatment Side Effects of Tumor Therapy: A Comprehensive Overview
Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Symptoms and Causes Explained
There is a hard lump in the armpit? There are multiple hard lumps in the armpit, with a small growth resembling a flesh-colored bump in the middle, and there is also something that looks like a wound, which is purple-black in color. It hurts when I take off my clothes, sleep on i...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It should only be folliculitis; it is recommended to drink plenty of water and to keep the armpits dry and hygienic.[Read More] Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Symptoms and Causes Explained
Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Groin: When to Seek Medical Help
A lump has developed in the vulvar area, near the junction with the thigh? Hello, doctor. Referring to the VIO areas commonly discussed in hair removal, I have a small lump on the upper right side of my triangle, close to the right thigh crease (but not directly at the crease). I...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be a localized inflammation (such as folliculitis); it is recommended to see a gynecologist.[Read More] Understanding Painful Bumps Near the Groin: When to Seek Medical Help
Understanding Persistent Eosinophilia: Causes and Health Risks
Eosinophilia Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if having an eosinophil count consistently between 800 and 1000 is indicative of any diseases or potential risks. For the past ten years, my count has always been in this range and never within the normal values. All other white bloo...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Elevated eosinophil counts can have many causes, such as allergies, medications, autoimmune diseases, or parasitic infections. However, since the duration has exceeded several years and is accompanied by abdominal pain and skin allergy symptoms, it is recommended to consult with ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Eosinophilia: Causes and Health Risks
Understanding Pancreatic Cysts and Liver Hemangiomas: What You Need to Know
Pancreatic pseudocyst. Hepatic hemangioma? I recently had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that I have a small cyst on my pancreas and a hemangioma on my liver. They didn't specify the size or location, only stating that they are benign but recommended follo...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
The small cysts in the pancreas and the hemangioma in the liver are both benign tumors. It is recommended to follow up every 3 to 6 months.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cysts and Liver Hemangiomas: What You Need to Know
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis
CEA value Hello, my mother went to a nephrologist due to back pain, and an ultrasound revealed a shadow on her liver. Blood tests were arranged, and her CEA level was found to be 1119, which is extremely high. However, she does not have any other discomforting symptoms. My mother...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
Psoriatic arthritis does not affect CEA levels; note: a CEA level of 1119 is significantly elevated, typically indicating that "potential" cancer is at an advanced stage or has metastasized to multiple sites. It is recommended to promptly consult an oncologist for furth...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Understanding a Lump Below the Left Collarbone: What Could It Be?
There is a lump below the left clavicle? Hello doctor, a few days ago I noticed a small lump under my left clavicle while examining my chest. It's located around the area between the first and second ribs. It's not very large and doesn't protrude much. I don't...
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be a benign subcutaneous tissue (such as a subcutaneous nodule, calcified tissue, lipoma, etc.), and observation is recommended.[Read More] Understanding a Lump Below the Left Collarbone: What Could It Be?
Should You See a Doctor for Painful Lumps Under Your Armpits?
Swollen underarm? There are small round bumps on both sides of your armpits that are painful to touch and press. Additionally, pressing near the bumps causes some discharge to come out. Should you see a doctor?
Dr. Hu Ziren reply Oncology
It may just be axillary folliculitis. Be sure to keep the underarms clean and dry. However, if there are accompanying symptoms such as fever and chills, it is advisable to see an infectious disease specialist or a plastic surgeon.[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for Painful Lumps Under Your Armpits?