Traveling by Plane with Liver Cancer: Safety Concerns and Risks
Liver cancer patients who wish to travel by plane? I would like to ask if a patient with liver cancer and a malignant tumor (approximately 10 centimeters in diameter) can fly on an airplane. Is there a risk that the changes in atmospheric pressure during the flight could cause th...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is a significant risk of rupture, especially with large liver cancers located near the liver surface. We have encountered patients with similar cases (e.g., abdominal pain after disembarking from a plane → urgent transfer to the hospital → liver cancer rupture). Additionall...[Read More] Traveling by Plane with Liver Cancer: Safety Concerns and Risks
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Elevated levels of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) test? Hello, I underwent a health check-up on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. All related liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, we...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You can wait for the CT scan report first, and if necessary, an MRI can be added, or you can follow up with a third blood test.[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Is a Slightly Elevated AFP and a 0.6 cm Nodule Indicative of Liver Cancer?
An elevated AFP level of 13 and a 0.6 cm nodule may raise concerns for liver cancer, but further evaluation is necessary. It is important to consider additional factors such as imaging studies (like ultrasound, CT, or MRI) and possibly a biopsy to determine the nature of the nodu...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Risk factors for liver cancer include individuals with chronic hepatitis (such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and autoimmune liver diseases), a family history of liver cancer, cirrhosis, alcohol consumption, obesity with metabolic liver disease, and certain environmental factors su...[Read More] Is a Slightly Elevated AFP and a 0.6 cm Nodule Indicative of Liver Cancer?
Understanding CT Scan Results: Insights on Liver Tumors and HCC
Computed Tomography Interpretation A female patient, non-smoker and non-drinker, with no history of hepatitis B or C, has undergone health check-ups in 2013, 2018, and 2022. She has three hemangiomas in the liver that are being monitored regularly. On February 19 of this year, sh...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If liver biopsy has confirmed the diagnosis, proceed with surgery as soon as possible. If a liver biopsy has not yet been performed, discuss the treatment plan with the attending physician. Liver cancer can still occur (though very rarely) in the general population without hepati...[Read More] Understanding CT Scan Results: Insights on Liver Tumors and HCC
Understanding Fatty Liver and Low-Echo Nodules: What You Need to Know
Fatty liver with hypoechoic liver nodules? Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing elevated serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) levels for a long time. My last test showed a level of 57 (normal is 35), so I have been regularly monitoring my liver condition every six month...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further imaging studies are required for confirmation.[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver and Low-Echo Nodules: What You Need to Know
Understanding Liver Nodules and Calcifications: Are They the Same?
Liver lesions and calcifications? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if hepatic nodular hyperplasia and calcifications in the liver are the same thing? If the fetal protein level is elevated at 17 and there are calcifications in the liver without hepatitis B or C, could this pote...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Nodules and calcifications should be considered different/unrelated. Elevated fetal protein levels are assessed by a gastroenterologist who monitors changes in values and conducts follow-up with ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging.[Read More] Understanding Liver Nodules and Calcifications: Are They the Same?
Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Liver Cancer Screening
Liver cancer index I would like to ask if it is common for the fetal protein index to be between 10-20 in a situation where there are no abnormalities found in hepatitis B and C tests, ultrasound, and CT scans, and where the urologist has also performed a testicular examination w...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
You can visit the gastroenterology and hepatology outpatient clinic.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Liver Cancer Screening
Improving Liver Health: Tips for Students Facing Stress and Sleep Deprivation
How to improve liver health? Hello Doctor: My friend was diagnosed with abnormal liver function in high school. Now he is in his junior year of college and often sleeps only 2 to 3 hours a week while preparing for exams. However, he cannot afford to sleep and sacrifice his grades...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
There are many causes of liver dysfunction. It is important to identify the underlying cause before implementing targeted treatment. Adhering to medication schedules, regularly monitoring liver function, and adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits can help the liver gradually reco...[Read More] Improving Liver Health: Tips for Students Facing Stress and Sleep Deprivation
Understanding MRI Findings: Assessing Liver Lesions After HCC Surgery
MRI Report Several years ago, a family member underwent surgery for liver cancer and recovered well, with follow-ups every three months. Recently, a CT scan indicated a gray shadow on the liver, prompting the doctor to order blood tests and a nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) exam...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The report indicates a recurrence of liver cancer; please discuss this with the attending physician for their assessment.[Read More] Understanding MRI Findings: Assessing Liver Lesions After HCC Surgery
Impact of Night Shift Work on Liver Health: Risks and Solutions
Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding night shift work? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if long-term disruption of the day-night cycle is harmful to the liver, or if there are any compensatory measures. Due to economic pressures, I have a job that requires me to work from...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
No hepatitis B and it is acceptable not to switch between day and night shifts. Annual health check-ups for workers should be conducted for monitoring.[Read More] Impact of Night Shift Work on Liver Health: Risks and Solutions
Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Abnormal CA 19-9 levels, inquiry about follow-up consultation methods? Hello Doctor, About three weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a self-paid health checkup. Due to my menstrual period, I first underwent abdominal/pelvic/breast ultrasound, and a week later, I completed blo...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
CA 19-9 cannot be used for diagnosis due to a very high rate of false positives; its interpretation depends on the individual physician's perspective. The principle is that if there are no specific tumors found during health screenings, one can feel reassured. It would be ad...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal CA19-9 Levels: Next Steps for Patients
Do I Really Need Hepatitis B Medication? Understanding Treatment Options
Questions about hepatitis B medication? Hello, I was diagnosed as a carrier of hepatitis B during a health check at the age of 18. Five months ago, at a nearby clinic, the doctor informed me that I qualified for hepatitis B medication under the national health insurance, so I sta...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If ultrasound indicates severe liver cirrhosis/fibrosis, please discuss with your physician.[Read More] Do I Really Need Hepatitis B Medication? Understanding Treatment Options
Does Hepatitis C Treatment Affect Glomerular Filtration Rate?
Does hepatitis C treatment affect the glomerular filtration rate? My father is 75 years old and has three high conditions, which are currently managed with medication. He started taking Epclusa for hepatitis C on July 5th of this year. Before starting the medication, his glomerul...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Will hepatitis C treatment medications affect glomerular filtration rate? According to the prescribing information for Epclusa, no dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with any degree of renal impairment, including those requiring dialysis. The medications may slightly aff...[Read More] Does Hepatitis C Treatment Affect Glomerular Filtration Rate?
Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help for Bowel Problems
Bowel issues? Hello Doctor, I am an eighteen-year-old high school student. I have been experiencing gastrointestinal issues, often feeling bloated and having abdominal sounds. Sometimes I suffer from constipation, while at other times my stools are loose. Recently, I have noticed...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
Hello Mr. Weng: It is recommended that you go to the hospital for an in-person evaluation and treatment by a physician. Director Cai JinjI of the Department of Hepatobiliary and Gastroenterology at Nantou Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: When to Seek Help for Bowel Problems
Post-Liver Transplant: Managing Metastasis to Lungs and Bones
Post-liver transplantation metastatic therapy? Hello, doctor. A family member was hospitalized last year in August-September due to health issues and was diagnosed with liver cancer, which could not be surgically removed due to cirrhosis. After evaluation by the medical team, a l...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The current principle is to administer systemic treatment (chemotherapy or targeted therapy) for 2-3 months. If only a single lesion remains afterward, localized treatment (surgery, electrocautery, or radiation therapy) may be added.[Read More] Post-Liver Transplant: Managing Metastasis to Lungs and Bones
Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Issues related to the reduction of side effects and dosage adjustments for Nexavar in liver cancer treatment? Dear Dr. Lin, My father is 65 years old and has been diagnosed with liver cancer. He has been taking Nexavar at a dosage of 200 mg twice a day for nearly two years. Earl...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Lenvatinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor used as a targeted therapy for patients with advanced liver cancer. It works by reducing blood supply and slowing the growth of cancer cells, thereby inhibiting tumor growth and spread. The goal is to delay the progression of the tumor. Prol...[Read More] Managing Side Effects and Dosage Adjustments for Nexavar in Liver Cancer Treatment
Understanding PIVKA II Levels in Liver Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Inquiry about liver cancer tumor marker testing? Hello Doctor, I recently had a health check-up and my liver cancer tumor marker PIVKA II value was 34, which is highlighted in red. However, the ultrasound examination only showed mild fatty liver. Could you please advise if this v...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Normal values (<40) should not be a cause for concern.[Read More] Understanding PIVKA II Levels in Liver Cancer Screening: What You Need to Know
Post-Surgery Diet Tips for Liver Resection Patients: What to Avoid
Postoperative Diet After Da Vinci Liver Surgery Hello Doctor, my father is 63 years old and has metastatic liver cancer due to colon cancer. After undergoing chemotherapy for a period of time, he had a Da Vinci surgery on April 3rd, where approximately 50-60% of his liver was rem...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
You may return for a follow-up appointment to confirm if there are any abnormalities in your blood tests. Post-operative dietary guidelines should be followed according to the nutritionist's recommendations (consultation is available).[Read More] Post-Surgery Diet Tips for Liver Resection Patients: What to Avoid
Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Fatty Liver and Tumors
Suspected liver cancer? Hello doctor, my mother has moderate fatty liver and does not have hepatitis B or C. Previously, she had an ultrasound, and the doctor ordered a CT scan, which indicated a suspicion of liver cancer. Blood tests were also conducted, and later the CT scan sh...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Suspicion of liver cancer should be based on preliminary abnormalities, which can be used as a reason to apply for further imaging studies under health insurance. The results confirmed that there is no liver cancer, so there is no need to worry. A splenic hemangioma is benign and...[Read More] Understanding Liver Health: Addressing Concerns About Fatty Liver and Tumors
Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health
Why do liver tumors shrink? In early November 2022, a company health check revealed that I have mild fatty liver. In mid-November 2022, a hospital examination found a liver tumor measuring 1.5 x 1.0 cm (hypoechoic). The doctor immediately arranged for an abdominal MRI (with contr...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, patients with chronic hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and cirrhosis are at high risk for liver cancer and require regular monitoring. If there is a suspected liver tumor on abdominal ultrasound, further confirmation should be done through computed tomography (CT), magnetic reson...[Read More] Why Did My Liver Tumor Shrink? Understanding Changes in Liver Health