Understanding Radiation Therapy for Benign Brain Tumors: Key Questions Answered
Brain tumor Hello, doctor. 1. When treating a benign brain tumor with radiation therapy, is radiation applied to areas outside of the tumor? 2. If so, would subsequent MRI imaging show an increase in size (possibly due to necrosis in the surrounding tissue)? 3. If surgical rese...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. The maximum therapeutic dose for tumors is administered, but other areas may also receive some radiation dose. 2. There may be "radiation therapy side effects" that manifest. 3. It depends on the specific situation of incomplete surgical resection, and additio...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Therapy for Benign Brain Tumors: Key Questions Answered
Optimal Timing for Radiation Therapy After Surgery for Tumor Patients
Radiation therapy How long after surgery is it appropriate to start radiation therapy?
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: It is best to start treatment within 1 to 1.5 months after the wound has healed (stitches removed). This message is on behalf of Dr. Chen Sih-Rong from the Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan.[Read More] Optimal Timing for Radiation Therapy After Surgery for Tumor Patients
Understanding Tumor Treatment: Insights on Brainstem Tumors and X-ray Knife Use
Tumor Hello doctor, my friend has a tumor located near the brainstem. After surgery to remove it, there is some residual tumor. He had already undergone radiation therapy before the surgery, so the radiologist recommends using a gamma knife. However, the neurosurgeon says it is n...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. Not related to astrocytoma. 2. Prior to surgery, radiation therapy was administered, so any subsequent radiation therapy must use a linear accelerator to minimize side effects—according to the opinion of the radiologist. 3. Previous radiation therapy may cause necrosis ...[Read More] Understanding Tumor Treatment: Insights on Brainstem Tumors and X-ray Knife Use
Can Tumors Develop Anywhere in the Human Body?
Which parts of the human body do not develop tumors? Hello, I would like to ask if tumors can develop anywhere in the human body? What causes them to form? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: Tissues that are capable of cell division have the potential to develop tumors. The causes of tumors are extremely complex; simply put, they result from the interaction between genetics and environmental factors. Dr. Lin Tsung-Che from Taoyuan Hospital, Department of Healt...[Read More] Can Tumors Develop Anywhere in the Human Body?
Unusual Urination Symptoms After Rectal Cancer Surgery: What to Know
Urinary excretion of foreign objects? Thank you, Dr. Lin, for your previous response. I have some additional concerns regarding my father's health: 1. On one occasion, my father experienced dark-colored urine accompanied by severe pain. We suspect it might be related to hi...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. If the urine appears dark, a urinalysis and microscopic examination can be performed first to determine the subsequent management. 2. If you feel uncomfortable after surgery, you can ask the physician to prescribe some medications for symptom control. Patients should pa...[Read More] Unusual Urination Symptoms After Rectal Cancer Surgery: What to Know
Early Stage Right Ureter Cancer in Dialysis Patients: Surgical Options
Right ureteral cancer (forwarded from the Director's mailbox) Hello doctor: I am a kidney patient with early-stage right ureter cancer undergoing peritoneal dialysis. Should I have surgery?
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: The most important treatment method for early-stage ureteral cancer is indeed surgery. The risks associated with the surgery can be assessed by the attending surgeon and the anesthesiologist. This is a response from Dr. Lin Tsung-Che, an oncologist at Taoyuan Hospital, Dep...[Read More] Early Stage Right Ureter Cancer in Dialysis Patients: Surgical Options
Understanding Salivary Gland Tumors: Do They Always Require Surgery?
Salivary gland tumor Hello, about five years ago, I discovered a lump located just below my ear and near my jaw... it's not exactly on my jaw. I went to the hospital for an examination, and the doctor said it was a salivary gland tumor. What is a salivary gland tumor? Is sur...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: There are many types of salivary gland tumors, and the treatment methods vary. If the physician has assessed that there is no concern, then it is advisable to continue monitoring the situation. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Tsung-Che, Oncology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry o...[Read More] Understanding Salivary Gland Tumors: Do They Always Require Surgery?
Understanding Tumor Concerns During Pregnancy: A Patient's Inquiry
Questions regarding tumors? Dr. Lin: Hello! I am 21 years old and currently six months pregnant. A couple of days ago, I discovered a hard lump about the size of my thumb under my armpit, which is quite uncomfortable. I haven't gone to the hospital for an examination yet. I ...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: It is possible, but there is no need to worry too much, as it could also be a benign tumor or other benign non-tumor conditions. Please seek medical evaluation. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Sih-Rong, Department of Oncology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Understanding Tumor Concerns During Pregnancy: A Patient's Inquiry
Understanding Radiation Therapy: Key Insights on Repeat Treatments
Regarding radiation therapy? Hello, doctor. I previously asked about the issue of secondary radiation therapy, and the doctor replied as follows: 1. Performing a second radiation treatment on the same area can lead to cell necrosis. 2. Radiation therapy can be performed on differ...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. There is no specified interval for secondary radiation therapy, but the closer the intervals, the greater the side effects. 2. The dosage for brain radiation therapy is approximately 5000-6400 centigrays, and the larger the treatment area, the smaller the tolerable dose...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Therapy: Key Insights on Repeat Treatments
Small Lump on Thigh: Should You Worry About Tumors?
Small lump on the thigh? I found a small lump on the front side of my thigh that is not visible to the eye but can be felt by touch. It is slightly painful when pressed. Could this be a tumor? Do I need to seek medical attention immediately? If so, which department should I consu...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: It is recommended that you schedule an appointment with the surgical outpatient department, as a physician's physical examination is necessary to determine the condition. Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Small Lump on Thigh: Should You Worry About Tumors?
Understanding Stage 3B Lung Cancer: Treatment Options and Patient Care
Please ask questions related to "lung cancer." Is stage 3B lung cancer, which has metastasized to the bones after radiation therapy, considered terminal? The patient originally had mild asthma, a history of tuberculosis (now cured), peptic ulcer disease, elevated blood ...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. Metastasis to the bones indicates stage IV disease. 2. In addition to chemotherapy, supportive therapies, such as pain management and nutritional supplementation, are also very important for patients. 3. It is advisable to increase fluid intake, and a physician may pres...[Read More] Understanding Stage 3B Lung Cancer: Treatment Options and Patient Care
Exploring Treatment Options for Brainstem Tumors: X-ray Knife vs. Radiation Therapy
Tumor My friend had a tumor near the brainstem that was surgically removed, but there is residual tissue near the brainstem. Is this situation suitable for treatment with a gamma knife or photon knife? Are these treatment methods associated with fewer side effects compared to rad...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: The X-ray knife or photon knife is more focused on the lesion, resulting in less damage to the surrounding tissues. However, when treating the brainstem with X-ray or photon knives, there may still be some radiation dose involved, and the level of this dose depends on the ...[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for Brainstem Tumors: X-ray Knife vs. Radiation Therapy
How to Obtain the Free Three-Month Herbal Formula for Cancer Care
How can I obtain the hospital's free three-month supply of Codonopsis and Ophiopogon Decoction? Hello Doctor: This morning I read in the Apple Daily that your hospital has recently developed a traditional Chinese medicine formula that can alleviate side effects caused by che...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello, Wiwi: The Sha Shen Mai Dong Decoction can be used to alleviate dry mouth and vomiting caused by chemotherapy. This formula is generally available in traditional Chinese medicine hospitals or clinics. Under the National Health Insurance for chronic diseases, one can obtai...[Read More] How to Obtain the Free Three-Month Herbal Formula for Cancer Care
Understanding Radiation Therapy Options for Brain Tumor Patients
Radiation therapy Hello doctor, I am a brain tumor patient. After undergoing stereotactic radiosurgery, my condition has not improved one year later. In mid-December 2003, I received 30 sessions of intensity-modulated radiation therapy with a dose of 215. I have just transferred ...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. Performing radiation therapy a second time on the same area can lead to cellular necrosis. 2. Radiation therapy can be performed again on different areas. 3. If the same area is treated again due to disease recurrence, and after the physician's explanation, the pat...[Read More] Understanding Radiation Therapy Options for Brain Tumor Patients
Are Malignant Brain Tumors Caused by Trauma or Genetics?
Malignant brain tumor Are malignant brain tumors caused by trauma or are they hereditary? Please provide an answer, doctor... Thank you.
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: The exact causes of malignant brain tumors are not well established. Factors such as trauma, radiation exposure, and genetics have been speculated to be associated with brain tumors, but the causal relationships are not very certain. This is a response from Dr. Lin Tsung-C...[Read More] Are Malignant Brain Tumors Caused by Trauma or Genetics?
Managing Post-Radiation Bleeding After Rectal Cancer Treatment
Post-treatment bleeding Dear Doctor, My father experienced bleeding from the anus after undergoing radiation therapy for rectal cancer. The treating physician mentioned that the radiation dose was too strong, but it was necessary to combat the cancer. I would like to ask for yo...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: The area around the anus is prone to infections, so the primary task is to keep the affected area clean. During this time, it is advisable to consume lighter foods. Additionally, you may ask your physician to prescribe an ointment for use on the affected area. Sincerely, D...[Read More] Managing Post-Radiation Bleeding After Rectal Cancer Treatment
Post-Surgery Dietary Care for Cervical Epithelial Tumor Patients
Post-operative dietary care after cervical epithelial tumor resection should focus on promoting healing and maintaining overall health. Here are some recommendations: 1. **Balanced Diet**: Consume a variety of foods to ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals. Include fru...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. A balanced diet is a fundamental principle of health maintenance, but it does not significantly affect the prognosis of cervical tumors. 2. More importantly, it is essential to have regular follow-ups and undergo relevant examinations and treatments. Sincerely, Dr. Lin ...[Read More] Post-Surgery Dietary Care for Cervical Epithelial Tumor Patients
Understanding Oral Cancer Treatment: Survival Rates and Options Explained
The efficacy of treatment for oral cancer? Hello, a friend's father has just been diagnosed with oral cancer, and I would like to ask a few questions. 1. Is oral cancer, nasopharyngeal cancer, head and neck cancer, and laryngeal cancer merely a matter of location, or are t...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. Apart from the differences in location, the optimal combination of treatment methods for these types of cancer also varies. 2. The purpose of combining radiation therapy and chemotherapy is "organ preservation," which aims to avoid impacting voice and eating f...[Read More] Understanding Oral Cancer Treatment: Survival Rates and Options Explained
Does Chemotherapy Increase Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recurrence Risk?
Does nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients have a higher likelihood of recurrence after undergoing chemotherapy compared to those who do not receive chemotherapy? Hello, I would like to ask: 1. Do nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients who undergo chemotherapy have a higher risk of recurr...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: 1. The causal relationship between chemotherapy and recurrence should be that in certain stages of nasopharyngeal carcinoma, chemotherapy can reduce the risk of recurrence after radiotherapy. If chemotherapy actually increases the recurrence rate, then what is the point of...[Read More] Does Chemotherapy Increase Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recurrence Risk?
Do Ovarian Tumors Over 10 cm Always Require Surgery?
Should an ovarian tumor larger than 10 centimeters be surgically removed? If the ovarian cyst is larger than 10 centimeters and does not respond to medication, surgery is often necessary. Is there a way to avoid surgery?
Dr. Lin Zongzhe reply Oncology
Hello: There are many types of ovarian tumors, and the decision to perform surgery is not solely based on size. Please discuss further with your physician. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Tsung-Che, Oncology Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.[Read More] Do Ovarian Tumors Over 10 cm Always Require Surgery?