Understanding Rising AFP Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Hepatitis B carrier with an abnormal rise in AFP to 588? Hello Doctor: I am a carrier of hepatitis B. My current status is as follows: AST 23, ALT 28, AFP 583. I have undergone abdominal ultrasound, CT, and MRI, but the reason for the continuous increase in AFP remains unclear. M...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. Elevated AFP levels are commonly caused by chronic hepatitis, acute hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Tumors that frequently secrete AFP include pancreatic tumors, gastric tumors, colorectal tumors, and bronchial tumors, as well as pregnancy in women and tes...[Read More] Understanding Rising AFP Levels in Chronic Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding Liver Lesions: What Do Black Spots Mean?
Liver spots issue? Hello Dr. Lin, my mother is a carrier of hepatitis B. Recently, she underwent a follow-up ultrasound examination of her liver, and the doctor mentioned that there are small black spots approximately 1.5 cm on her liver. Subsequently, tests for ALT, AST, and alp...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Hepatitis B carriers require regular follow-up. An abdominal ultrasound shows a black spot approximately 1.5 cm, which may be due to causes such as fibrous nodules, cysts, small tumors, or early-stage liver cancer. The levels of AST, ALT, and AFP are normal, indicating no ...[Read More] Understanding Liver Lesions: What Do Black Spots Mean?
Can You Develop Liver Cancer Without Hepatitis B?
Hepatitis B and Liver Cancer Hello, doctor: May I ask if it is possible to develop liver cancer without having hepatitis B? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The risk factors for liver cancer include: 1. Hepatitis B 2. Hepatitis C 3. Liver cirrhosis 4. Family history, etc. Therefore, the absence of Hepatitis B does not mean one will not develop liver cancer. Wishing you health, Dr. Chen Qi-Feng, Taoyuan Hospital, Department of ...[Read More] Can You Develop Liver Cancer Without Hepatitis B?
Understanding Esophagitis and Fatty Liver: Risks and Prevention
Esophagitis and fatty liver disease? Hello, I recently had an endoscopy, and the doctor indicated that I have esophagitis. I don't feel any discomfort, but the doctor mentioned that individuals with esophagitis have a higher risk of developing esophageal tumors compared to t...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: 1. Reflux esophagitis is associated with esophageal cancer, but its relationship is influenced by the severity and duration of esophagitis, as well as factors such as ethnicity (less common in Eastern populations) and individual constitution, requiring further follow-up. E...[Read More] Understanding Esophagitis and Fatty Liver: Risks and Prevention
Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Gastric or Hepatic Issues?
Abdominal pain or stomach pain? Hello, doctor: Recently, I have been experiencing pain in the lower part of my chest, slightly to one side, and sometimes it hurts when I press on it. Could this be a stomach issue or a liver/gallbladder issue? Is it possible that this could be sto...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally speaking, the nerves of the internal organs are not intricately connected, making it difficult to determine which organ is affected based solely on the location of pain. Therefore, discomfort in the upper abdomen, particularly on the right side, could indicate is...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: Is It Gastric or Hepatic Issues?
Understanding Uncertain Liver Tumors: Insights on CT Scans and Fatty Liver
About Computed Tomography (CT) Scanning Hello Dr. Chen, I apologize for asking again after my previous questions. Thank you for your response. My father is 61 years old and has recently been diagnosed with fatty liver and a 1.2 cm indeterminate liver tumor. However, his liver fun...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The most common benign tumors of the liver are hemangiomas or liver cysts, which can usually be diagnosed through abdominal ultrasound or computed tomography (CT). If the diagnosis cannot be confirmed, the main recommendation is to monitor the condition (generally advised ...[Read More] Understanding Uncertain Liver Tumors: Insights on CT Scans and Fatty Liver
Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
GOT is normal, while GPT is elevated? Hello, doctor. My brother underwent a military physical examination at your hospital last September, and the report indicated that his GOT levels were normal, but his GPT was elevated at 98. He returned for a follow-up examination on February...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Ms. Peko. 1. If you have a higher body weight, fatty liver should be addressed by first losing weight and confirming with an ultrasound. 2. Other potential causes such as medications and alcohol must also be ruled out. Dr. Chen Shidian from Changhua Hospital cares abo...[Read More] Understanding Elevated GPT Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Hepatitis B patients who are e-antigen negative? Hello Doctor: In 2006, I tested negative for HBeAg and positive for HBeAb, and I originally thought I was a low viral load hepatitis B patient. However, my recent tests showed GPT=77, GOT=31, AFP=4.5, and HBV DNA=250,000 IU/mL. The...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Hello, you are a very diligent patient. I will first address your questions in order, and then provide the current health insurance regulations and personal recommendations regarding your situation. First, the e antigen in wild-type chronic hepatitis B virus is indeed an indica...[Read More] Understanding e-Antigen Negative Hepatitis B: Risks and Treatment Options
Is Severe Pain Below the Nipple Related to Liver or Stomach Issues?
Is the pain below the nipple when taking a deep breath related to the liver? What are some issues concerning the stomach and liver? Hello Dr. Lee: I would like to ask some questions regarding my stomach and liver. I have been a carrier of hepatitis B for over ten years, and I hav...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Doctors cannot accurately diagnose the source of a patient's pain based solely on its location; otherwise, there would be no need for ultrasound, endoscopy, or X-rays! You may suspect that you have a stomach or liver condition but are reluctant to undergo further testing. Wi...[Read More] Is Severe Pain Below the Nipple Related to Liver or Stomach Issues?
Understanding Diffuse Liver Fibrosis: When to Seek Further Evaluation
"Diffuse" liver fibrosis Dear Dr. Li, Hello! My mother is 82 years old and had breast cancer surgery five years ago (without chemotherapy). She has diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. She has been tested negative for hepatitis B, but has not been tested for hep...
Dr. Li Yongming Reply:
Reply: Hello, regarding hepatitis, in Taiwan, chronic hepatitis B and C are still the most prevalent, particularly in the Chiayi and Tainan regions. When liver enzymes (AST/ALT) are elevated, it is essential to test for HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen) and anti-HCV Ab (Hepatit...[Read More] Understanding Diffuse Liver Fibrosis: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Liver Tumors: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Liver tumor issues? Dear Dr. Lin, 1. My father is 70 years old and has recently experienced some health issues. He has over ten tumors in his liver, but the biopsy report indicates that the largest one is necrotic, so the report appears to be fine. However, the doctor mentioned ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: 1. There are instances where tumors may be associated with necrosis, and elevated CA 19-9 levels can indicate various conditions, including malignant ones such as pancreatic cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, and gastrointestinal cancers. Benign conditions may include cholecystit...[Read More] Understanding Liver Tumors: Causes, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding CAL OXALATE and Current Clinical Practices for Liver Tumor Treatment
What is CAL OXALATE? Also, what is the current clinical situation regarding computer-assisted surgery for liver tumors? Thank you! What is CAL OXALATE? Also, what is the current clinical situation regarding computer-assisted surgery for liver tumors? Thank you!
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Ms. Joeylin: 1. I am unclear about what CAL OXALATE is. I apologize. 2. Does it refer to more precise electrotherapy? Its effectiveness is still not fully confirmed. It is mostly used for symptom management (pain relief) or in conjunction with other treatments for liver ...[Read More] Understanding CAL OXALATE and Current Clinical Practices for Liver Tumor Treatment
Managing Liver Cirrhosis: Safe Medications and Dietary Tips
Cirrhosis and related issues? Hello, Doctor. I apologize for asking the following questions here. I currently have hypertension, hyperlipidemia, high cholesterol, and cirrhosis. The medications I am taking include Mavik (I have stopped taking Fenofibrate; can I still take it?), C...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Li: Most medications are metabolized in the liver, and the dosage should be adjusted based on liver function. You can discuss this with your psychiatrist or a hepatologist/gastroenterologist. The same applies to blood pressure and lipid medications. Changhua Hospital ca...[Read More] Managing Liver Cirrhosis: Safe Medications and Dietary Tips
Concerns About Liver Health: Notable Right Rib Bulge and Symptoms
The area near the lower edge of the right rib cage is noticeably more protruded than the left side? Hello Dr. Chen: I am a carrier of hepatitis B and have been monitoring my condition with ultrasound and blood tests every six months. Recently, I noticed a protrusion on the right ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Please undergo an ultrasound examination within a reasonable timeframe to rule out the possibility of a liver tumor, so you can have peace of mind. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian.[Read More] Concerns About Liver Health: Notable Right Rib Bulge and Symptoms
Managing Chronic Hepatitis B: When to Start Treatment and Testing
Could you please specify your question regarding hepatitis B? I am a carrier of hepatitis B, which was detected during a blood test when I was 18 years old in high school. Now I am 27. There have been a few instances where my liver enzymes spiked to 4 to 5 times the normal level,...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, sir: The e antigen and viral load can represent the "virulence" of the virus, which may increase the chances of future outbreaks or long-term complications such as liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. However, despite advancements in medical technology, there is stil...[Read More] Managing Chronic Hepatitis B: When to Start Treatment and Testing
Understanding Liver Nodules: When to Worry About Cancer Risk
Liver nodule measuring 1.2 cm? My husband started experiencing hepatitis B inflammation in 2002 (at the age of 36), with significantly elevated ALT and AST levels. He was hospitalized three times in 2003 due to persistently high levels. At the end of 2003, he began taking Hepatit...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: Sorry for the late reply! 1. Roughness indicates fibrosis; if necessary, a liver biopsy can be performed for assessment. 2. Viral treatment requires a long-term commitment, ideally over three years, and may need to be extended to new therapies if necessary. If medica...[Read More] Understanding Liver Nodules: When to Worry About Cancer Risk
Understanding Hepatitis B: Testing and Precautions for Your Family
Hepatitis B antibody testing in children? Hello Dr. Chen: I was diagnosed with hepatitis B 17 years ago during a blood donation. Does having hepatitis B mean that I am a carrier? Can it be transmitted to those who share meals with me, or to my spouse or children? Over the past fe...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: 1. Having hepatitis B means you are a carrier. 2. If you are a carrier, you need to be monitored every six months. 3. Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids, not through food or drink. 4. Children can be tested first, and they can also undergo sch...[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Testing and Precautions for Your Family
Understanding the Costs of Radiofrequency Ablation for Liver Cancer Treatment
Liver cancer My father has undergone embolization twice and recently had a third procedure, which unfortunately was unsuccessful. The doctor mentioned that he needs to undergo electrocautery. I have heard that the costs are not cheap; could you please explain how the expenses are...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The National Health Insurance provides coverage for a type of umbrella-shaped electrosurgical needle, but it is not very effective. On the other hand, the commonly used straight needle is not covered by the insurance and costs around 40,000 NTD. However, it can be sterilized and ...[Read More] Understanding the Costs of Radiofrequency Ablation for Liver Cancer Treatment
Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Monitoring, Risks, and Insurance Implications
Hepatic hemangioma Hello Dr. Chen, I had an abdominal ultrasound in 2003 that revealed a 1 cm hepatic hemangioma, which increased to 1.5 cm last year. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. Besides abdominal ultrasound, should I also have blood tests for Hepatitis B, H...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, 1. Hepatic hemangiomas typically present differently on abdominal ultrasound compared to liver cancer. If there are concerns, testing for hepatitis B and C, as well as alpha-fetoprotein, is reasonable. Once it is confirmed that there is no hepatitis B or C, it is not nec...[Read More] Understanding Liver Hemangiomas: Monitoring, Risks, and Insurance Implications
Navigating Treatment Options for Elderly Patients with Liver Cancer
Liver cancer Hello: My father has been diagnosed with liver cancer, with a tumor approximately 11 centimeters in size. He is 76 years old. One hospital suggested that due to his advanced age, they do not recommend any treatment. Another hospital proposed chemotherapy and radiatio...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss: If you are too weak, special treatments are not recommended (such as photon therapy, which is a form of radiation therapy). Oral anticancer medications (not chemotherapy!) can extend life by a few months, but they are expensive and have many side effects. You may try...[Read More] Navigating Treatment Options for Elderly Patients with Liver Cancer