Understanding Chemotherapy Resistance in Breast Cancer Treatment
Ineffective chemotherapy? Hello Dr. Wu: Previously, I inquired about my tumor, which is 7 centimeters in size. After undergoing four sessions of chemotherapy with a drug called "Little Raspberry," my CAI153 index remained high at over 300. The doctor then switched my tr...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Len, After undergoing six rounds of chemotherapy, the tumor has not shown significant reduction, and the CA-153 levels remain high. Although this indicates that the medications have not been very effective, there has been some progress observed. After surgery, the CA-1...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy Resistance in Breast Cancer Treatment
Unexplained Lump in Armpit: Could It Be a Sign of Breast Cancer?
Unexplained lump in the armpit? I would like to ask about a recent issue where I have been experiencing pain in my left armpit while wearing a bra. Initially, I thought it was due to the bra being too small, but later I discovered an unknown lump. Could this be a symptom of breas...
Dr. Yang Mingqi Reply:
Hello, internet user: If you feel any unexplained lumps in your breast or underarm, please seek a diagnosis from a general surgeon or a breast surgeon as soon as possible. Do not take it lightly or attempt to self-diagnose. Sincerely, Dr. Yang Ming-Chi, Surgeon.[Read More] Unexplained Lump in Armpit: Could It Be a Sign of Breast Cancer?
Understanding Breast Discharge: What It Means for Your Health
Breast discharge? Doctor, I once noticed yellow discharge on the surface of my areola and nipple, which stuck to my bra, resembling a bruise (but it wasn't bleeding, just yellow mucus). After two days, the "bruise" area seemed to have healed, and there was no more ...
Dr. Xie Wenhuai Reply:
Based on your description, it seems that the areola area is affected by eczema, also known as dermatitis, which is usually an allergic reaction caused by contact between the bra and the delicate skin. Symptoms may include discharge or a rash on the skin. Treatment involves the ap...[Read More] Understanding Breast Discharge: What It Means for Your Health
Understanding Male Nipple Development: Concerns and Solutions
About the nipple? Hello, doctor. I am a male, and my chest is currently very flat (although it has improved a bit from going to the gym). However, my nipples are also flat, only becoming somewhat protruded when it's cold or when I shower. From my observations, even generally...
Dr. Zhao Ming Reply:
Mr. Lin: From a physician's perspective, you have no issues. Most nipple disorders are primarily related to breast cancer. Your confusion is unnecessary. Please do not use hormonal treatments. Dr. Zhao Ming[Read More] Understanding Male Nipple Development: Concerns and Solutions
Can You Feel Fibroids in the Breast? What to Know About Breast Health
If there are fibrous tissues in the breast, can they be felt? Hello, Doctor: I apologize for bothering you. My mother has two friends who recently heard that they have fibroids in their breasts, and one of them even had surgery. (They mentioned that fibroids could be a precursor ...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, it is likely that the condition could be a fibrocystic change or a fibroadenoma. Generally speaking, a physical examination can diagnose many fibrocystic lesions or fibroadnomas, but whether surgery is necessary should be assessed based on the ac...[Read More] Can You Feel Fibroids in the Breast? What to Know About Breast Health
Understanding Breast Pain: Is It a Sign of Breast Cancer?
Breast pain Hello doctor, I recently noticed that one of my breasts is larger than the other. The larger one feels painful to the touch and has a hard lump. Is this a sign of breast cancer?
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Fan Fan: "One breast is larger than the other, and the larger one is painful to the touch and has a lump." This requires further examination. Although at your age of 25, it is not the typical age for breast cancer, caution is still warranted. However, please t...[Read More] Understanding Breast Pain: Is It a Sign of Breast Cancer?
Understanding Breast Cancer Staging and Treatment Options: A Guide for Patients
Breast Hello Dr. Wu: My mother underwent surgery a few days ago to remove breast cancer, which was approximately 1.7 cm in size. Initially, we thought it was early-stage, but after the surgery, 20 lymph nodes were tested and all were positive (there is also suspicion of residual ...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Hello: Based on your description, your mother's breast cancer is likely classified as Stage II. Generally, the surgical removal of 20 axillary lymph nodes affected by cancer is sufficient, and no further surgery is necessary. Subsequent treatments may include radiation thera...[Read More] Understanding Breast Cancer Staging and Treatment Options: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Breast Cancer Risks: What to Do After a Suspicious Lump
High-risk groups for cancer? Last month, I discovered a hard lump in my right breast that is less than one centimeter in size. After two outpatient visits, I underwent fine needle aspiration and core needle biopsy. The doctor initially suspected it was ductal carcinoma in situ (D...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Tsai-Ling, I apologize for the delayed response due to the system not forwarding your question in a timely manner. Regarding the breast lump, if both fine needle aspiration and core needle biopsy results are negative for cancer, you can feel relatively reassured. Howev...[Read More] Understanding Breast Cancer Risks: What to Do After a Suspicious Lump
Understanding Stage III Breast Cancer: Treatment Options and CA 15-3 Insights
Stage III breast cancer Thank you, Dr. Wu, for your previous response. I have currently undergone four rounds of chemotherapy. I have also had detailed examinations, and there is currently no evidence of metastasis. However, my CA 15-3 level has surprisingly risen to over 260. Th...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Len, Congratulations! Your examination shows no signs of metastasis at this time. However, if the tumor does not shrink after chemotherapy, a change in medication will be necessary. Paclitaxel is currently a very effective drug used in the treatment of breast cancer. Y...[Read More] Understanding Stage III Breast Cancer: Treatment Options and CA 15-3 Insights
Understanding Stage III Breast Cancer: Treatment Progress and Concerns
Stage III breast cancer I was diagnosed with stage III breast cancer in December. The doctor said that after three rounds of chemotherapy, I would need surgery for removal. Currently, I am undergoing chemotherapy every three weeks. The doctor mentioned that I would noticeably fee...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Len, For larger breast cancers, it is possible to first administer chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before surgical removal. In some cases, we also incorporate concurrent radiation therapy to enhance the effect. Most of our cases show a reduction in size after 3 to 4 c...[Read More] Understanding Stage III Breast Cancer: Treatment Progress and Concerns
Understanding Breast Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Expert Insights
Breast issues Hello Dr. Wu~~~~ ^ ^ I would like to ask you a few questions. I have seen some people asking about symptoms of breast cancer, and it often includes "erythematous lupus." What does that look like? My right nipple has been discharging some white substance (i...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
DEAR MISS Milkvampire, Breast cancer and "lupus erythematosus" are two distinct diseases. The former is a cancer formed by abnormal proliferation of breast tissue, while the latter is an autoimmune disease. It is rare for both conditions to occur simultaneously. The wh...[Read More] Understanding Breast Issues: Symptoms, Concerns, and Expert Insights
Understanding Breast Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Breast issues Hello Dr. Wu~~~~ ^ ^ I would like to ask you a few questions. I have seen some people asking about symptoms of breast cancer, and it is often associated with "erythematous lupus." What does that look like? My right nipple has been secreting some white disc...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Milkvampire, Breast cancer and lupus erythematosus are two distinct diseases. The former is a cancer formed by abnormal proliferation of breast tissue, while the latter is an autoimmune disease. It is rare for both conditions to occur simultaneously. The white discharg...[Read More] Understanding Breast Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Understanding Breast Pain and Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Breast pain with discharge? Hello, doctor... I have noticed that my right nipple has been painful for the past two days, with a sensation of swelling and pain, and there is a clear discharge. There is a family history of breast cancer, as two of my aunts have had it. I had an abo...
Dr. Zhao Ming Reply:
Hello: Breast pain accompanied by discharge is quite common in women of reproductive age. Most cases are benign; however, literature has reported that the likelihood of breast cancer in the presence of nipple discharge is approximately 8%. It is advisable to consult a breast spec...[Read More] Understanding Breast Pain and Discharge: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Breast Asymmetry: Concerns and Treatment Options
Breast size disparity? I recently noticed that my right breast is significantly smaller than my left breast, and the difference is quite obvious visually. When I wear a bra, the right side never fills out properly; there’s at least a two-cup size difference. About four years ago,...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Xiao-Hui, If your right breast is significantly smaller than your left breast and the difference is visually apparent, and you are very concerned about achieving symmetry, it is indeed worth considering surgery. However, keep in mind that any surgical procedure will le...[Read More] Understanding Breast Asymmetry: Concerns and Treatment Options
Understanding Pain Below the Nipples: Causes and Concerns
Pain below the nipple? Dear Doctor: I have been experiencing a slight itch at the lower edge of my nipples, and when I touch them, it turns into a sharp pain. Sometimes it can be very painful. This issue has been present for several years. I would like to know what the cause migh...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
No content.[Read More] Understanding Pain Below the Nipples: Causes and Concerns
Persistent Breast Lumps Since Puberty: What You Need to Know
A breast lump that has persisted since puberty? Hello, I would like to ask about a situation I experienced. When I first started developing, I noticed hard lumps in both breasts. At that time, I heard that it is normal for girls who are just entering puberty to have this conditio...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
DEAR MISS Hsiao-Meng: It is quite normal for some girls to notice breast lumps during the onset of development. However, if these lumps persist and have a diameter of four centimeters, it is advisable to have them examined by a breast surgeon, as there is a higher likelihood of a...[Read More] Persistent Breast Lumps Since Puberty: What You Need to Know
Understanding Breast MRI: Diagnosis, Process, Costs, and Insurance Coverage
Regarding the breast MRI examination at your hospital? I may be at risk for breast cancer but have not undergone a biopsy. I would like to inquire about the breast MRI examination at your hospital regarding the following questions: 1. Can a breast MRI alone be used to diagnose ...
Dr. Liao Jinshui Reply:
Hello: 1. The sensitivity of breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing breast cancer can reach over 95% according to literature reports. However, the results are only imaging detections, and a correct diagnosis of breast cancer still requires confirmation through path...[Read More] Understanding Breast MRI: Diagnosis, Process, Costs, and Insurance Coverage
Understanding Breast Changes: What Could They Mean for Your Health?
Abnormal breast condition? Hello, I recently noticed that the left side of my chest has shown signs of enlargement. When I apply slight pressure, I feel some mild pain around the areola. Using my fingertips, it seems there is a small hard lump under the skin, about the size of a ...
Dr. Yang Mingqi Reply:
Hello: The probability of men developing breast cancer is approximately 1 in 150 compared to women, but it is not impossible. If you notice any abnormalities in your breast, please promptly visit a hospital to consult a breast surgeon. Given your symptoms, there may be a higher c...[Read More] Understanding Breast Changes: What Could They Mean for Your Health?
Understanding Breast Issues: What to Know About Nipple Bumps and Health Concerns
Breast issues Hello, I would like to ask about a small bump near my nipple that is similar in size to a pimple. It feels soft to the touch, and when pressed, it secretes a white, creamy substance. What could this be? Is it a sign of breast cancer? Do I need to go to the hospital ...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear Miss Sister: There is a small protrusion near the nipple that resembles the size of a pimple, which is not typically indicative of breast cancer. Common causes include sebaceous cysts or other skin changes. There is no need to be overly concerned at this time. If you need to...[Read More] Understanding Breast Issues: What to Know About Nipple Bumps and Health Concerns
Understanding Inverted Nipples in Men: Causes and Concerns
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Dr. Wu, I have a question that I'm really confused about. I'm a male, but I don't understand why my nipples are inverted. They only appear normal when I'm showering, but so far, all the ones I've seen a...
Dr. Wu Jingtang Reply:
Dear, The likelihood of young males developing breast cancer is very low, and generally, male nipple inversion is not caused by malignant tumors. Moreover, since this does not occur while you are showering, you should feel more at ease. You can perform a self-examination to che...[Read More] Understanding Inverted Nipples in Men: Causes and Concerns