Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Cancer Recurrence or Bone Metastasis?
Abnormal cancer markers? Hello Doctor, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer nearly 10 years ago and underwent treatment. Five years ago, doctors confirmed that there were no tumors. She has continued to have ultrasounds every year. This year, my mother reported neck pain th...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear [Recipient], Regarding your inquiry, the elevation of the CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) level can be attributed to various factors. If the levels continue to rise, further investigation will be necessary. Please return to your attending physician for evaluation. Wishing y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Cancer Recurrence or Bone Metastasis?
Understanding Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I discovered a lump in my armpit that doesn't look much like a pimple. It is painful to touch and press, but the pain has been decreasing day by day. After about three days, it is almost painless, but the lump...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Ms. Lin: Thank you for your inquiry. Based on your description, it is very likely related to your menstrual cycle. I recommend seeing a breast surgeon for further evaluation. Wishing you peace and comfort, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, Radiation Oncology.[Read More] Understanding Lumps Under the Armpit: When to Seek Medical Advice
Consulting on Dietary Supplements for Post-Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery
Consultation on Edible Health Supplements for Daily Life After Breast Cancer Surgery My mother is 56 years old and underwent breast cancer surgery six months ago, followed by a series of chemotherapy treatments. She has always had difficulty sleeping, and over time, this may lead...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear [Recipient's Name], Regarding your inquiry about self-administering "Suntory Sesame E," please discuss this with your attending physician. Wishing you peace and well-being. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng Department of Radiation Oncology[Read More] Consulting on Dietary Supplements for Post-Breast Cancer Surgery Recovery
Managing Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Cancer: One and a Half Years Post-Treatment
One and a half years after treatment for stage IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma? My husband has stage IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma (T4N3M0), located in the supraclavicular fossa and the longus colli muscle area. After a year and a half of treatment, he is doing well. Recently, during a...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
1. Please perform a blood test to check the EBV DNA PCR levels, and then assess for any recurrence. 2. The cervical lymph nodes have decreased from 1.2 cm to 0.6 cm and then increased to 0.96 cm; I recommend surgical excision for pathological examination. 3. Is the nasopharyn...[Read More] Managing Stage IV Nasopharyngeal Cancer: One and a Half Years Post-Treatment
Understanding Recurrent Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Recurrent lumps in the armpit? The recurring hard lumps in the armpit that disappear after a few days, are generally painless but cause discomfort when pressed, and do not move, could be indicative of several conditions. One possibility is the presence of lymphadenopathy, which c...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello Ms. Claire, Thank you for your message. In response to your inquiry: the swelling sensation in your right armpit, could it be related to your menstrual cycle? If the swelling and pain only occur before and after your menstruation, it may be associated with hormonal change...[Read More] Understanding Recurrent Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Ensuring Safety at Home: Managing Cancer Medications with Dementia Care
The oral medication for cancer is safe? Hello, doctor! Our elder at home is suspected to have dementia. He has been receiving medical treatment and medication for dementia, but the effects are minimal. He forgets to wash his hands after taking his chemotherapy medication and ofte...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello, Ms. Sandwich Cookie. Regarding the safety of oral medications for cancer treatment, it is advisable to consult your hospital's pharmacist for a more secure recommendation. Thank you for reaching out. Best regards, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, Department of Radiation Oncology, Ch...[Read More] Ensuring Safety at Home: Managing Cancer Medications with Dementia Care
Understanding Swollen Armpits: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swollen underarm? I noticed some swelling in my armpit today while changing clothes. It feels somewhat painful, but not too much. However, the right side seems more swollen compared to the left. What could this be? Should I see a dermatologist?
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello Ms. Ava, Thank you for your message. In response to your inquiry: the feeling of swelling in your right armpit, could it be related to your menstrual cycle? If the swelling and pain only occur before and after your menstruation, it may be associated with hormonal changes....[Read More] Understanding Swollen Armpits: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding a Non-Painful Armpit Lump: What You Need to Know
There is a lump in the armpit? I have a lump located slightly above my armpit that has been with me for at least 3 years. It doesn't hurt, doesn't move, and I can't squeeze anything out of it. It grows very slowly and doesn't seem to have changed much; it meas...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello, Thank you for your inquiry. Since I cannot observe your actual symptoms, I am unable to provide a comprehensive assessment. I recommend that you first consult with a surgeon for evaluation before a diagnosis is made. Changhua Hospital cares about you. Sincerely, Dire...[Read More] Understanding a Non-Painful Armpit Lump: What You Need to Know
Managing Stage IV Esophageal Cancer with Metastasis: Key Considerations
Stage IV esophageal cancer with metastasis to other sites? Hello, Doctor! At the beginning of July, my father (56 years old) suddenly experienced weakness in his left leg. After examination at the hospital, it was found that there were 3-4 tumors of varying sizes in his brain. Fu...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Ms. Wu, Thank you for your letter. Here are the responses to your inquiries in order: 1. Currently, nutrition is being administered primarily via a nasogastric tube. Oral intake should be avoided to prevent aspiration pneumonia due to potential esophageal obstruction from ...[Read More] Managing Stage IV Esophageal Cancer with Metastasis: Key Considerations
Exploring Treatment Options for Stage III Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Stage III esophageal adenocarcinoma? Hello Doctor, my father was diagnosed with stage III esophageal adenocarcinoma in mid-April. There is only some space left in the upper part of his stomach, and the gastric wall at the gastroesophageal junction has thickened. In early May, a c...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Ms. Shiori: Based on the condition you described, your father will primarily continue with chemotherapy, supplemented by radiation therapy. Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, Department of Radiation Oncology, Changhua Hospital.[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for Stage III Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
Understanding Axillary Lumps: When to See a Specialist
There is a lump in the armpit? The lump is located in the axillary groove near the chest (likely in the area of the axillary lymph nodes). It seems to be elongated, and when raising my arm and feeling from above downwards, I can sense a protruding area. My menstrual period starte...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Da-Fei, Thank you for your letter. I recommend a consultation with a breast surgeon. Wishing you peace and good health. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng Department of Radiation Oncology[Read More] Understanding Axillary Lumps: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Abdominal Masses: When to See a Specialist
Abdominal mass? Hello doctor, recently I have noticed a lump above my navel and below my chest. I initially thought it was an acne, but upon closer examination, I can feel a hard mass underneath it, approximately 2 centimeters in diameter, and there is no pus at the site of the l...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Vinas, Thank you for your letter. I recommend that you seek an evaluation from the surgical department to determine whether a biopsy is necessary for confirming benign or malignant status. Wishing you all the best and a smooth journey ahead. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng ...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Masses: When to See a Specialist
Understanding Groin Lumps: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Inguinal mass Hello Doctor: Recently, I noticed a lump in my groin area that is slightly painful when pressed and can move. Additionally, I have small, bump-like lesions on my abdominal skin. I have researched a lot and found that these could be related to lymphatic tumors or a w...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Xiaohau, Thank you for your letter. I recommend seeking a surgical biopsy to determine whether the condition is benign or malignant. Wishing you all the best and a smooth process. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yicheng Department of Radiation Oncology[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Possible Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Adjuvant Therapy Options for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Adjuvant medication Hello, Dr. Lai! I recently underwent a colonoscopy, and it was found that there are two flat polyps extending horizontally at the cecum: one measuring approximately 1.5 cm x 0.7 cm and the other in a V-shape measuring about 2 cm x 0.5 cm. Visually, they are di...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Ms. K.K., Thank you for your inquiry. Here are the responses: 1. All diagnoses should be based on the pathological report from laboratory tests. If it is not a malignant tumor, polypectomy may suffice. However, if it is unfortunately malignant, the pathological report from...[Read More] Understanding Adjuvant Therapy Options for Colorectal Cancer Patients
Understanding Axillary Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Axillary tenderness Hello, I have accessory breast tissue. During a self-examination, I noticed a few small, bean-like clusters in my right armpit that are not hard and do not hurt unless I press on them. I have been massaging them vigorously, and now when I press on my armpit, I...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Ms. Shan: Due to the inability to observe your actual symptoms and conduct a thorough assessment, it is recommended that you seek an initial evaluation from a breast surgeon. Changhua Hospital cares about you. Radiation Oncology Department, Director Lai Yi-Cheng.[Read More] Understanding Axillary Pain: When to Seek Medical Advice
Sudden Enlargement of Armpit Lump: What You Need to Know
A lump near the armpit suddenly enlarged? Hello, Dr. Lai: I have had a hard lump about the size of a mung bean near my right armpit for a long time. Since it has not been painful and has not increased in size, I have ignored it. However, in the past three days, the lump suddenly ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello, Miss: Thank you for your inquiry. Since I cannot see your actual symptoms, I am unable to provide a comprehensive assessment. I recommend that you first consult a surgeon for evaluation before making a diagnosis. Changhua Hospital cares about you. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Che...[Read More] Sudden Enlargement of Armpit Lump: What You Need to Know
Radiofrequency Ablation for Liver Tumors: Treatment Options in Taichung
Electrocautery treatment for liver tumors? Hello Dr. Lai: My elder brother is 68 years old and has hepatitis C and mild cirrhosis. A few months ago, an ultrasound examination revealed three tumors (3.1, 2.2, and 1.8 cm). The doctor mentioned that radiofrequency ablation could be ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Hello Mr. Liu: Regarding your inquiry about which hospital in the Greater Taichung area has Bi-polar radiofrequency ablation equipment, generally, all medical centers are equipped with this technology. Our Changhua Hospital also has specialists who perform this procedure. If you ...[Read More] Radiofrequency Ablation for Liver Tumors: Treatment Options in Taichung
Understanding Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up
Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Hello Doctor: On February 21, I was diagnosed with a 6 cm tumor on the left side of my thyroid and two tumors measuring about 1-2 cm on the right side. I underwent a surgical removal, and the pathology results showed that the right side was benign whil...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Mr. Huang: Thank you for your inquiry. Here is the response: 1. Surgery is typically the first step in treating thyroid cancer, aiming to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible. In rare cases of localized and well-differentiated thyroid cancer, a lobectomy of the affe...[Read More] Understanding Papillary Thyroid Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Follow-Up
Choosing Chemotherapy Drugs for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Chemotherapy drug options for triple-negative breast cancer? Hello Doctor, my mother was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer last December, approximately 2.4 cm in size. The lymph node biopsy did not show any cancer cells because the tumor is located too close to the nip...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Ms. Clare, Thank you for your letter. I appreciate your concern for your mother; you are a caring daughter. Regarding the choice of chemotherapy drugs for triple-negative breast cancer that you mentioned, there are some discrepancies with your mother's attending physic...[Read More] Choosing Chemotherapy Drugs for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Managing Side Effects of Third Chemotherapy for Thymic Tumors
Side effects of the third chemotherapy session? The patient is in the advanced stage of malignant thymoma (approximately 7.5 cm at diagnosis, encasing major blood vessels and close to the heart). After two rounds of chemotherapy, the doctor mentioned some shrinkage, but did not s...
Dr. Lai Yicheng reply Oncology
Dear Madam, Thank you for your inquiry. The treatment for malignant thymoma primarily involves surgical resection, followed by postoperative pathological evaluation to determine the necessity for further radiotherapy or chemotherapy. In the case you described, which falls under ...[Read More] Managing Side Effects of Third Chemotherapy for Thymic Tumors