Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Concerns for Hepatitis B Patients
Questions related to abdominal ultrasound examination? Hello Doctor, I am a carrier of hepatitis B. Today, during my health check-up, I had an abdominal ultrasound. The doctor indicated that there are some white spots on the liver surface, with one larger spot measuring 0.6 cm. I...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It is recommended to closely monitor and only perform a biopsy if there is a suspicion of malignancy, as small lesions may not be adequately sampled. Pancreatic and hepatic cysts are generally benign. If they are not too large or causing compression or complications, monitoring i...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Concerns for Hepatitis B Patients
Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
Pancreatic tumor Dear Dr. Lin, In July, my husband underwent a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan originally intended to monitor his lungs, but it unexpectedly revealed a pancreatic tumor approximately 3.2 cm in size with low density. We promptly returned to the thoracic s...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
A cyst in the body of the pancreas larger than three centimeters may sometimes be difficult to identify on imaging. An endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has been arranged, and it does not communicate with the bile duct. There are no nodules within the tumor, leaning towards a serous cy...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Tumors: Diagnosis, Treatment Options, and Risks
Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver Health
Inquiry about abdominal ultrasound results? Hello Doctor, I recently had some tests done, including an ultrasound. The doctor had prescribed medication for my condition. Are there any important points to note regarding the ultrasound results? Thank you. Blood test results: GOT...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
A 0.5 cm lymph node located outside the liver in the abdominal cavity can generally be monitored with follow-up.[Read More] Understanding Your Abdominal Ultrasound Results: Key Insights for Liver Health
Understanding Abnormal Glutamate Transaminase Levels: Liver or Pancreas Issues?
Examination Report Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my test report showing an abnormal level of glutamate transaminase at 158. What kind of issue could this indicate? I have frequent social gatherings for work and have been drinking alcohol regularly for many years. Is thi...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Liver inflammation. Please refrain from alcohol consumption and seek medical treatment.[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Glutamate Transaminase Levels: Liver or Pancreas Issues?
Understanding Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: EUS-FNA and Biomarker Insights
Endoscopic Ultrasound Fine-Needle Aspiration Index Hello Doctor, I previously had a cyst detected in my pancreas, so I have undergone several examinations including ultrasound, endoscopy, MRI, and CT scans. Due to the suspicion of a nodule in the cyst, the doctor arranged for an ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
A 2.7 cm pancreatic cystic tumor has abnormal values following endoscopic ultrasound aspiration. There is a possibility of a mucinous cystic tumor, as well as other differential diagnoses such as intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm (IPMN) and solid pseudopapillary neoplasm. I...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cystic Lesions: EUS-FNA and Biomarker Insights
Understanding Diarrhea and Stool Color Changes After Gastroenteritis
Bowel-related issues? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my condition. The night before last, I had severe diarrhea, which was mostly watery, and I also experienced vomiting. In the morning, I went to a clinic and the doctor diagnosed me with gastroenteritis. They prescribe...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
After treatment for diarrhea and gastroenteritis, the stool has improved to a solid form, but it appears gray with white specks. This could be related to medication, gastroenteritis, or diseases of the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. During gastroenteritis, it is important to fo...[Read More] Understanding Diarrhea and Stool Color Changes After Gastroenteritis
Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Stool Color Changes Explained
Pancreatic cancer? 1. Is it possible for the stool of a patient with pancreatic cancer to show a combination of yellow-brown and gray-white colors? 2. Can the stool of a patient with pancreatic cancer alternate between gray-white one day and yellow-brown the next day?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Pancreatic cancer can cause stool to appear partially yellow-brown and partially gray-white. When there is biliary obstruction, the stool may appear gray-white. The color of the stool is related to the degree of bile duct obstruction. Pancreatic tumors, especially those in the he...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cancer: Stool Color Changes Explained
Early Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer: What to Watch For
Pancreatic cancer? In the early stages of pancreatic cancer, there are typically no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, the first symptom that usually appears is abdominal pain. The second symptom that may follow is jaundice, which is characterized by yellowing of the skin...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Most pancreatic cancer refers to pancreatic adenocarcinoma, while a small portion consists of neuroendocrine tumors that present differently. Symptoms of pancreatic adenocarcinoma include weakness, weight loss, nausea, upper abdominal pain, dark urine, jaundice, back pain, diarrh...[Read More] Early Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer: What to Watch For
Should I Repeat MRI or Switch to Ultrasound for Elevated CA199 Levels?
CA19-9 Issues Thank you for your response, doctor. In the previous question, I mentioned that my CA 19-9 levels were over 5 three years ago, and this year they were over 15 and then over 17 two months later. You suggested an abdominal ultrasound or MRI. I would like to ask if I s...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
There is no need for further MRI examination. Follow-up with ultrasound is sufficient.[Read More] Should I Repeat MRI or Switch to Ultrasound for Elevated CA199 Levels?
Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Health check report red text Hello Dr. Lin: During the recent company health check, the ultrasound technician mentioned that my liver appeared somewhat coarse and discovered a liver cyst (0.43 cm). The doctor advised me to undergo additional blood tests for liver function. After ...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
The diagnosis of acute pancreatitis involves several steps: First, assess for symptoms such as abdominal pain and postprandial back pain. Second, identify any risk factors such as gallstones, bile duct stones, alcohol consumption, and hyperlipidemia. Third, evaluate biochemical t...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Liver and Pancreatic Function Test Results
Post-Pancreatic Head Resection: Strategies to Combat Muscle Loss and Weight Gain
After pancreatic head resection surgery, there is muscle wasting in the body? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed two years ago with a "benign" liquid tumor in the head of the pancreas. After undergoing surgery for pancreatic cancer to remove the head of the pancreas and a ye...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If there are no gastrointestinal symptoms, it is recommended to discuss with a nutritionist or rehabilitation specialist on how to correct sarcopenia. The principle is to increase protein intake and engage in resistance training.[Read More] Post-Pancreatic Head Resection: Strategies to Combat Muscle Loss and Weight Gain
Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Lipase and Amylase Dear Deputy Director: Last August, my child had acute gastroenteritis, and during the emergency visit, the lipase and amylase levels were elevated. After the follow-up visit, an abdominal ultrasound was performed at the end of August, which showed normal resu...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
If a blood test for lipase and amylase levels is to be conducted, it is generally recommended to fast for 8 hours prior to the blood draw to avoid food interference with the results. Additionally, if the child does not exhibit symptoms of pancreatitis, has a normal abdominal ultr...[Read More] Understanding Lipase and Amylase Levels in Pediatric Gastrointestinal Health
Chronic Lower Abdominal Pain with Normal Bowel Movements: What to Know
Normal bowel movements, but experiencing chronic lower abdominal pain? Hello, Doctor. I started experiencing lower abdominal pain (cramping) in January 2022, and I cannot determine if it is in the left lower or right lower quadrant (lower middle). Generally, my bowel movements ar...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Normal bowel movements but persistent lower abdominal pain. After defecation, the pain shifts from the lower abdomen to the upper abdomen. There is no pain at night, but pain occurs in the morning upon waking. Abdominal ultrasound and colonoscopy show no issues. Treatment for irr...[Read More] Chronic Lower Abdominal Pain with Normal Bowel Movements: What to Know
Post-Pancreatic Cyst Surgery: Understanding Persistent Bloating Issues
Frequent bloating after pancreatic cyst removal? Hello doctor, I underwent minimally invasive surgery on September 1, 2022, to remove a 3.5 cm cyst (benign) located at the tail of the pancreas. It has been over four months since the surgery, and I still frequently experience a fe...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Four months after the resection of a cyst at the tail of the pancreas, experiencing frequent bloating is possible. Post-surgery, there may be adhesions or digestive issues. It is recommended to pay attention to dietary habits, such as reducing the intake of fried foods and hard-t...[Read More] Post-Pancreatic Cyst Surgery: Understanding Persistent Bloating Issues
Understanding CA-199 and CA-125 Tumor Markers: Which Specialist to Consult?
CA-199 tumor marker Hello Doctor, my recent health check results show that my CA-199 tumor marker is 75.2 and my CA-125 tumor marker is 60.5. Both values are highlighted in red. I would like to ask you, as I have been regularly (every year or six months) monitoring my gynecologic...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Elevated CA19-9 and CA-125 levels in women warrant further gynecological monitoring. Although the levels are not significantly high, they are abnormal and may be related to gynecological issues such as uterine fibroids or teratomas. Continued follow-up and treatment are recommend...[Read More] Understanding CA-199 and CA-125 Tumor Markers: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Bowel issues Hello, doctor. I would like to consult about the color of my stool. I have been experiencing chronic constipation, and today I noticed that my stool is light yellowish-gray for the first time. However, it was brown yesterday. Should I seek medical attention for this,...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Stool that is light yellowish-gray in color can be related to diet, medications, or diseases. Pale gray or white stool may indicate reduced bile production by the liver or obstruction in the biliary tract, and it is advisable to check for any issues with the liver, gallbladder, o...[Read More] Understanding Stool Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Digestive Issues: Black Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Digestive and bowel issues? I have noticed that my stool has been dark brown, almost black, over the past few days. On Monday, it was very thick and hard, and the next day it became more pellet-like with a lighter color. Today, I also had pellet-like stools but simultaneously pas...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
As long as the weight is normal, continue to monitor the diet and observe.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Black Stool and Abdominal Discomfort
Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Bowel-related issues and pancreatic problems? Doctor, I would like to ask a question. On January 3rd, due to the cold weather and strong winds that evening, I might have caught a chill, which led to a fever of about 37.8 degrees Celsius. On my way home, I bought some ready-to-eat...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The described process pertains to enteritis, which involves a light diet and seeking medical attention for medication management as necessary, while monitoring for changes. Rapid testing may also be considered.[Read More] Understanding Digestive Issues: Could Your Symptoms Indicate Pancreatic Problems?
Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain After Bile Duct Stone Removal
Laparotomy for the removal of bile duct stones? Hello doctor, I have a history of liver transplantation. On October 3rd, I experienced upper abdominal pain and went to the emergency room at National Taiwan University Hospital on the early morning of October 4th, where I was admit...
Dr. Hu Guozheng Reply:
Hello, there are many causes of upper abdominal pain. If it occurs after meals and is related to fatty foods, it is indeed important to be cautious about pain originating from the gallbladder or pancreas. However, pain from other gastrointestinal sources is also possible. Given t...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Abdominal Pain After Bile Duct Stone Removal
Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Understanding Abdominal Discomfort and Adhesions
It has been two months since the appendectomy? Hello Dr. Lin, I have some health concerns that I would like to discuss with you. On August 3rd, I underwent an appendectomy at Min-Sheng Hospital on Jingguo Road in Taoyuan and was hospitalized for four days. After being discharge...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
It has been 2.5 months since the appendectomy, and there is still an intermittent feeling of swelling in the right abdomen, raising concerns about adhesions. Wound healing naturally requires time, and preventing adhesions should be considered both during and after surgery. After ...[Read More] Post-Appendectomy Concerns: Understanding Abdominal Discomfort and Adhesions