Can You Contract Bloodborne Diseases from Nail Salons?
Blood infection Hello, doctor. A few days ago, I went to get my nails done and ended up bleeding. I'm concerned about the possibility of contracting a bloodborne disease since I didn't check if the nail clippers at the salon had dried blood on them.
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
It is recommended to schedule an appointment with an infectious disease specialist for consultation.[Read More] Can You Contract Bloodborne Diseases from Nail Salons?
Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies: Insights into Rare Disease Symptoms
Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) Hello, Doctor. Recently, after being diagnosed for the first time over a month ago, I experienced unexplained swelling in my toe, but my uric acid levels were normal. After the toe improved, I started developing hives for unknown reasons, and I also n...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
It appears to be within the normal range, but it is recommended to continue monitoring in the rheumatology and immunology department.[Read More] Understanding Antinuclear Antibodies: Insights into Rare Disease Symptoms
Understanding ANA Test Results: Normal vs. Abnormal Findings Explained
ANA (Antinuclear Antibody) Doctor, could you please tell me if these test results are normal or abnormal? ANA: 1:40 (-) (1:40 (-)) ANA Pattern: - ANA ≥ 1:160 (+) suggestive of clinical significance.
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello: A positive test result requires further diagnosis by a clinical physician.[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Normal vs. Abnormal Findings Explained
Understanding ANA Test Results: Implications for Rare Diseases in Children
Immunoglobulin antibody index My daughter (8 years old) recently experienced abnormal hair loss and underwent blood tests at the hospital. The results showed an ANA titer of 1:640, with further testing revealing 1:640 + Homogeneous (AC-1) and 1:320 + Centromere (AC-3). I would li...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello Peggy: 1. Do these two indices indicate that scleroderma will definitely develop in the future? No. 2. What other tests are needed? Symptoms that are more commonly seen in pediatric scleroderma include localized thickened, shiny rashes or associated joint stiffness. If ther...[Read More] Understanding ANA Test Results: Implications for Rare Diseases in Children
Understanding Hair Loss and Abnormal ANA Levels in an 8-Year-Old
An 8-year-old child with hair loss and abnormal ANA (antinuclear antibody) levels? Hello, a child (8 years old) initially had a small patch of alopecia areata, which later progressed to widespread hair loss. Blood tests showed an antinuclear antibody (ANA) titer of 1:320, with co...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello Peggy: Based on the description, the hair loss does not yet meet the criteria for lupus erythematosus. It is recommended to seek evaluation and treatment from a pediatric dermatologist at a medical center.[Read More] Understanding Hair Loss and Abnormal ANA Levels in an 8-Year-Old
Understanding Congenital Coagulation Disorders in Newborns: Causes and Prevention
Congenital metabolic disorders 1. What are the possible causes of coagulation disorders in newborns (excluding hemophilia)? 2. In the case of non-hereditary conditions, is there anything that can be done or consumed during pregnancy that could have an impact? 3. If it is unce...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello, issues related to genetic mutations or coagulation disorders in newborns are difficult to address online. It is recommended to schedule a consultation with a pediatric hematology-oncology specialist or a genetics clinic to seek advice from a specialist. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Congenital Coagulation Disorders in Newborns: Causes and Prevention
Understanding Chronic Monocytic Leukemia: A Rare Disease Journey
Chronic Monocytic Leukemia (CML) Hello Dr. Lin, my mother has low platelet counts and the steroid treatment has been ineffective, so she underwent a splenectomy. However, that night she developed septic shock and was admitted to the intensive care unit for emergency treatment. He...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Your mother's condition is indeed complicated. This disease is not within my area of expertise, so I recommend consulting with specialists in hematology and oncology at other medical centers.[Read More] Understanding Chronic Monocytic Leukemia: A Rare Disease Journey
Understanding the Risks of Splenectomy for Severe Thrombocytopenia
Mother with severe thrombocytopenia? Dear Dr. Lin, I previously inquired about my mother's low platelet count issue. She is currently receiving treatment in the Hematology and Oncology Department at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and is on steroid therapy. However, the treatm...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello, Akai: ITP, or Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura, is an autoimmune disease characterized by the immune system producing antibodies that attack platelets, leading to accelerated platelet destruction. When platelet counts fall below 50,000, there is an increased risk of bleedin...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Splenectomy for Severe Thrombocytopenia
Dietary Recommendations for Lupus Patients: What to Eat and Avoid
Diet for Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) I would like to ask about my sister, who is a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus and is currently in the hospital undergoing tests for edema. She is preparing for a kidney biopsy. I want to know what kind of food would be suitabl...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello, NANA. The dietary principles for patients with lupus erythematosus are low in oil, low in salt, low in sugar, high in fiber, and high in calcium. A high-protein diet is important: patients with lupus who have kidney damage often lose a significant amount of protein in thei...[Read More] Dietary Recommendations for Lupus Patients: What to Eat and Avoid
Understanding Low Platelet Count: Treatment Options and New Medications
Thrombocytopenia Hello, Doctor. I previously inquired about my mother, who was hospitalized due to low white blood cell counts caused by immunosuppressive therapy. The doctor mentioned that her white blood cell count has stabilized, and her recent blood test showed a count of 200...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Typically controlled with steroids, if the effect is unsatisfactory, consider Nplate (romiplostim) subcutaneous injection. Please discuss with your physician. Wishing you a speedy recovery.[Read More] Understanding Low Platelet Count: Treatment Options and New Medications
Managing Low Platelets and White Blood Cell Count: A Patient's Journey
Treatment for thrombocytopenia and leukopenia? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask you about my mother. She previously had a low platelet count of around 20,000 and was treated at Changhua Christian Hospital. The doctor prescribed steroids (Dexamethasone) and an over-the-counter g...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Based on your description, your mother may have idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura. However, it is important to rule out the possibility of infection or tumors. Bone marrow examination is normal, which excludes the possibility of aplastic anemia. The low white blood cell count m...[Read More] Managing Low Platelets and White Blood Cell Count: A Patient's Journey
Persistent Itchy Rash in a 20-Year-Old: Possible Rare Conditions and Treatments
Could you please provide more details regarding the issue of persistent itchy rashes? The 20-year-old female has been experiencing itchy red rashes all over her torso (front and back) since the end of January this year. She has consulted dermatology, traditional Chinese medicine,...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Skin symptoms must be evaluated in person. There are many possible underlying causes. Based on your description, it is difficult to determine the morphology and characteristics of the rash. However, since the symptoms have persisted for over 6 weeks, they are considered chronic, ...[Read More] Persistent Itchy Rash in a 20-Year-Old: Possible Rare Conditions and Treatments
Understanding Takayasu Arteritis: Challenges in Rare Disease Recognition
Giant cell arteritis Dr. Lin: Hello! In this moment when healthcare resources are scarce and rare diseases are often overlooked, I am very happy to find a channel to ask some questions. I sincerely hope you can answer my question. Why is the incidence of Takayasu's arteritis...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
I sincerely apologize, as I am also unclear about the criteria for including rare diseases. I empathize with your situation. It is classified as an autoimmune disease. Generally speaking, with proper treatment, the prognosis is quite good. However, I believe that in the event of ...[Read More] Understanding Takayasu Arteritis: Challenges in Rare Disease Recognition
Could My Symptoms Indicate an Autoimmune Disease?
Am I suffering from an autoimmune disease? 1. Folliculitis with skin redness, swelling, pain, red spots, and varicose veins. 2. Dizziness, migraines, difficulty sleeping, and waking easily. 3. Eye symptoms: fatigue, tearing, pressure pain, stabbing pain, dryness, congestion, ...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.[Read More] Could My Symptoms Indicate an Autoimmune Disease?
Seeking Guidance on Managing My Child's Chronic Urticaria
Please assist me in informing what steps to take next? Dear Director, I sincerely apologize for bothering you again. I previously consulted you regarding my child's chronic urticaria. The blood test results showed an antinuclear antibody level of 1280. Following your suggest...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Chronic urticaria, if no other underlying causes are identified, can be treated with long-term use of second-generation or third-generation antihistamines (long-acting, once daily), or in combination with leukotriene antagonists, which can also be effective. The safety profile is...[Read More] Seeking Guidance on Managing My Child's Chronic Urticaria
Understanding High Antinuclear Antibody Levels in Children: Next Steps
Elevated antinuclear antibodies (ANA)? Dear Director, I sincerely apologize for bothering you, but I would like to ask for your assistance in answering a question. My daughter is in the fourth grade and started experiencing urticaria seven weeks ago. We have taken her to both ped...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
In general, chronic urticaria is defined as lasting more than six weeks, and determining the underlying cause can be more challenging. An isolated elevation of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) is not particularly significant unless it is accompanied by at least four additional manife...[Read More] Understanding High Antinuclear Antibody Levels in Children: Next Steps
Understanding Adult Erdheim-Chester Disease: Treatment and Care Tips
Adult Still's disease Could you please tell me if my condition can be completely cured? What are the ways to maintain my health?
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is an important cause of unexplained fever in adults. The course of the disease varies significantly: for those with a single episode of systemic type, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and a small dose of corticosteroids may s...[Read More] Understanding Adult Erdheim-Chester Disease: Treatment and Care Tips
Understanding Congenital Myopathy: A Mother's Guide to Managing Rare Muscle Disorders
Congenital myopathy Dear Dr. Lin, My son underwent a muscle biopsy in 2006, and the doctor informed us that his cells are relatively small and the dark areas are lighter. We were only advised against engaging in vigorous exercise. However, my son has been experiencing frequent f...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
First, we need to confirm whether your child has a myopathy. From your email, I cannot fully understand your child's condition. Could you please provide more detailed information: 1. What was the age of onset, how old is your child now, and are the growth and developmental m...[Read More] Understanding Congenital Myopathy: A Mother's Guide to Managing Rare Muscle Disorders
Can Adults with OI Access Your Clinic for Skin Issues?
Immunodeficiency Dr. Lin: Hello, I am a patient with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI). I would like to inquire about my skin condition and would like to schedule an appointment with you. I am wondering if your clinic sees adults in addition to children.
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
Hello: Pediatrics generally sees patients under 18 years old, but this does not apply to those with a history of chronic illnesses identified during childhood. I can see if I can be of assistance. Wishing you health and safety.[Read More] Can Adults with OI Access Your Clinic for Skin Issues?
Understanding Joint Pain: Seeking Answers for Rare Conditions
Is there pain in all the joints? I have been experiencing this issue for seven or eight years. Whenever I have an episode, one of my joints becomes swollen and painful. I have visited many hospitals, but no one has been able to determine the cause. I only went to a hospital in Ch...
Dr. Lin Sixie reply Rare Disease
If multiple joints are indeed red, swollen, hot, and painful, and the symptoms persist for more than six weeks, you may meet the criteria for "chronic polyarthritis." This could be an autoimmune disease or another systemic condition, and it is essential to consult a rhe...[Read More] Understanding Joint Pain: Seeking Answers for Rare Conditions