Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Benign Conditions Explained
Pancreatic issues? I recently received my health check report, and the tumor marker CA19-9 value was over 500. On the day of the check-up, I also had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor indicated that there were no issues. I found some information online stating that some ben...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Hello Ms. C, CA19-9 is not used for screening biliary inflammation or pancreatic cancer; some healthy individuals may have elevated levels. However, your value is indeed significantly high. It is recommended that you consult a hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal specialist for eva...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Benign Conditions Explained
Is Low Cholesterol and Triglycerides a Sign of Pancreatic Cancer?
Is there any basis for this statement? Recently, I came across a physician citing a study from the United States indicating that a decrease in triglycerides and cholesterol could be a precursor to pancreatic cancer. Is there any basis for this? According to the citation: In May o...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Further research is needed.[Read More] Is Low Cholesterol and Triglycerides a Sign of Pancreatic Cancer?
Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Concerns About Pancreatic Cancer Risk
CA19-9 Issues Hello Doctor, I had a CA19-9 test six months ago, and the result was 28. Now it is 32. The doctor arranged for an ultrasound and said there is no fibrosis, just more fat. He advised me to reduce sugar and fried foods. The doctor scheduled a CT scan for May. I would ...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
The accuracy of CA19-9 is relatively low; generally, it is sufficient to monitor imaging and numerical values. Whether to perform a CT scan is a matter of personal judgment.[Read More] Understanding CA19-9 Levels: Concerns About Pancreatic Cancer Risk
Understanding CA72-4 Tumor Marker Levels and Their Implications for Stomach Health
CA72-4 tumor marker I would like to ask the doctor, if the CA72-4 tumor marker is as high as 41.16, does it indicate that there is a problem with the stomach? Is it possible that it could be stomach cancer?
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello, the CA72-4 tumor marker is not very specific or sensitive in clinical practice. Unlike colorectal cancer, which is tested with CEA, or pancreatic cancer, which uses CA 19-9 as a better tumor marker, there is currently no good tumor marker for gastric cancer. However, if CA...[Read More] Understanding CA72-4 Tumor Marker Levels and Their Implications for Stomach Health
Understanding Pancreatic Health: Symptoms and Recommended Tests
Is it possible for the pancreas to develop a disease? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have suddenly experienced a loss of appetite, slight abdominal bloating, and occasional nausea. After seeing the early symptoms of pancreatic cancer, I became very anxious. Additionally, I have been ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
The priority for examining the pancreas is primarily through abdominal ultrasound.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Health: Symptoms and Recommended Tests
Understanding Pancreatic Echo Brightness: Should You Worry?
Abdominal ultrasound reveals hyperechoic areas in the pancreas? During a routine health check, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a 0.7 cm hyperechoic lesion in the pancreas. It is said that shadows on ultrasound are more concerning, while hyperechoic lesions are generally less wor...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello Mr. Aaron, if there are abnormalities in the pancreatic function, further examination is necessary. Inquiring online is not the correct approach; it is recommended to visit a gastroenterology clinic in person.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Echo Brightness: Should You Worry?
Understanding Post-Cholecystectomy Symptoms and Cancer Risks
Please explain the effects after gallbladder removal? Hello, Director Chen. I had my gallbladder removed at the age of 32 due to a one-centimeter polyp based on my physician's recommendation. Since then, I occasionally feel a vague discomfort in my right lower rib area, whic...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Sir, many of your localized abnormal sensations are caused by the surgery and do not pose a health risk. Additionally, it is recommended to regularly monitor for occult blood in the stool after the age of fifty. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Chen Shidian[Read More] Understanding Post-Cholecystectomy Symptoms and Cancer Risks
Complications of Biliary Stenting in Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Biliary stent complications? Hello Dr. Yang, my mother was recently diagnosed with stage II pancreatic cancer. To manage her jaundice, she underwent endoscopic biliary stenting. After the procedure, she was living normally, but starting on the sixth day, she experienced recurrent...
Dr. Yang Zhichao Reply:
Dear Little Red Bean, pancreatic cancer is known for its unpredictable progression. While placing a metal stent may resolve most jaundice issues, there are still situations where jaundice may not improve. The use of self-paid albumin should not be related to the metal stent; it s...[Read More] Complications of Biliary Stenting in Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: What You Need to Know
Elevated CA 19-9 levels? Hello doctor, I paid out of pocket for a cancer marker test, and my CA 19-9 level has risen by over 100. However, I currently have no discomfort or gastrointestinal issues. I have a history of gastroenteritis and underwent an upper gastrointestinal endosc...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: A high level of CA-199 does not definitively indicate the presence of cancer; it is only for reference. However, it is generally used clinically to monitor colorectal cancer, lung cancer, bile duct cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. D...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: What You Need to Know
Understanding Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Mucus in stool? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing difficulty with bowel movements for a long time (they are usually pellet-like). Occasionally, about once or twice a month, I have diarrhea (during my menstrual period). As a working professional, I often hold off on having a ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
It is recommended to consult a gastroenterologist and undergo gastrointestinal imaging, as it may only be a functional disorder.[Read More] Understanding Mucus in Stool: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Abdominal pain issues? Hello Dr. Tsai, over the past six months, I have frequently visited the hospital due to abdominal issues. I have undergone various diagnostic tests including ultrasound, CT scans, blood tests, and X-rays, all indicating inflammation of the intestines or sto...
Dr. Cai Jinji Reply:
It is recommended to visit a hospital for a detailed consultation with a gastroenterologist, who will review the previous reports and make decisions and assessments afterward.[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Pain: When to Seek Further Gastrointestinal Evaluation
Understanding Enlarged Bile Duct and Pancreatic Head: Symptoms and Concerns
Common bile duct and enlargement of the pancreatic head? Dear Doctor, My father started experiencing some symptoms at the beginning of last year: 1) fever and weakness that would resolve the next day, returning intermittently; 2) vomiting, and around May of last year, he develop...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
There are many causes of obstructive jaundice, including benign conditions such as bile duct stones, and malignant conditions primarily involving tumors (such as cholangiocarcinoma, pancreatic head cancer, duodenal cancer, and duodenal papilla cancer). Therefore, it is essential ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Bile Duct and Pancreatic Head: Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding the Risks of Cancer Related to Jaundice Symptoms
Is the risk of cancer high? Hello, doctor. I researched some symptoms of jaundice in adults. In this stage, hepatitis is the primary cause of jaundice, especially chronic hepatitis B and C. Some patients may progress to cirrhosis or develop liver cancer, which can severely affect...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: It is recommended to monitor the changes in the indices. If the jaundice is caused by diseases of the pancreas, bile ducts, or liver, the indices will gradually increase. At that time, a physician will evaluate what kind of examinations should be arranged. You should also ...[Read More] Understanding the Risks of Cancer Related to Jaundice Symptoms
Understanding Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Gastric cancer, pancreatic cancer? Dear Doctor, 1. Recently, I have experienced a loss of appetite and had black stools for two days. I went to the hospital for an endoscopy, and the doctor said I have an ulcer. I was prescribed medication. During the endoscopy, the doctor also ...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello, your condition is ulcer bleeding, and treatment will require a certain duration. If symptoms do not improve after treatment, an abdominal ultrasound can be arranged to assess the condition of the pancreas and liver. Staying up late does not cause liver cancer. Sincerely, D...[Read More] Understanding Stomach and Pancreatic Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Please provide more details regarding the pancreatic issues you are experiencing? Hello, Dr. Lin. A month ago, when I returned to Taiwan and underwent a comprehensive health check at Asia University Hospital, an abdominal ultrasound revealed a hyperechoic nodule approximately 1 c...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: Congenital variations of the pancreas are not common and are difficult to examine. Some are discovered only after an unexplained episode of pancreatitis. The most sensitive examination for pancreatic tumors is endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), which can detect tumors smaller th...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Variations: Concerns and Next Steps After Diagnosis
Understanding CA 19-9 Levels: What High Readings Mean for Your Health
Pancreatic cancer index Hello, Doctor! I am 34 years old this year. I discovered an elevated CA19-9 level (64) in 2009. At that time, I underwent various tests, including MRI and endoscopy, which revealed a 9 cm benign focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) in the liver, while the pancr...
Dr. Cai Anshun Reply:
Hello: CA 19-9 levels may be elevated in patients with pancreatic cancer, cholangiocarcinoma, liver cancer, gastric cancer, and colorectal cancer. However, elevated CA 19-9 levels can also occur in patients without cancer, such as those with liver cirrhosis, cholangitis, hepatiti...[Read More] Understanding CA 19-9 Levels: What High Readings Mean for Your Health
Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Should You Worry About Pancreatic Cancer?
CA19-9 levels have been elevated for four consecutive years? Hello Doctor: In 2009, I was found to have elevated CA 19-9 levels (64). At that time, I underwent numerous tests, including an MRI, which only revealed a benign focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) in the liver, while other...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: The normal value of CA-199 for Taiwanese individuals is higher compared to those in Europe and the United States. Inflammation or benign tumors can also cause a slight increase. Given your condition, it may be advisable to monitor the levels; if there is indeed a problem, ...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CA19-9 Levels: Should You Worry About Pancreatic Cancer?
Understanding Pancreatic Enlargement: Should You Seek Further Evaluation?
Regarding pancreatic enlargement? Previously, I had stomach discomfort and an endoscopy revealed gastritis. For precaution, I returned to the doctor who performed an ultrasound and found an enlarged head of the pancreas measuring 4.2 x 2.4 cm (not fasting). Later, the doctor orde...
Dr. Chen Qifeng Reply:
Hello: Generally, there is no specific term for congenital pancreatic enlargement. Please arrange for an abdominal ultrasound follow-up for confirmation. Best wishes, Dr. Chi-Feng Chen, Taoyuan General Hospital, Department of Health.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Enlargement: Should You Seek Further Evaluation?
Understanding Pancreatic Enlargement: Causes and Next Steps
Pancreatic enlargement Due to discomfort in my stomach, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy at a nearby small hospital, which revealed mild gastroesophageal reflux. As a precaution, the doctor recommended an ultrasound. The results showed an enlargement of the head of...
Dr. Lin Minghui Reply:
Hello: The enlargement of the pancreatic head may have several possible causes as mentioned by the physician, including pancreatitis, autoimmune diseases, pancreatic cancer, and congenital anomalies. It is recommended to monitor the condition and seek medical attention if symptom...[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Enlargement: Causes and Next Steps
How to Check for Pancreatic Issues: A Guide for Patients
Pancreatic issues Hello Doctor: My mother is 65 years old and has hepatitis C and Sjögren's syndrome. She is on regular medication. Since my uncle passed away from pancreatic cancer a few years ago, I would like to ask which department she should see for a pancreatic examina...
Dr. Chen Shidian Reply:
Hello, Miss Lin. 1. The primary examination for the pancreas is an ultrasound (gastroenterology). If you are regularly monitoring your liver function tests, the ultrasound will also be performed at the same time. However, the pancreas can sometimes be obscured by the stomach or...[Read More] How to Check for Pancreatic Issues: A Guide for Patients