Blood, Internal Medicine FAQ

Understanding Medication Concerns for Ankylosing Spondylitis: Celebrex vs. Salazopyrine

Medication-related issues in ankylosing spondylitis? Hello, doctor. I am #191897. 1. During my previous visit, I asked the doctor about the medication Celebrex (celecoxib). The doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to require the use of Salazopyrin (sulfasalaz...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. When I previously consulted with my doctor regarding the use of Salazopyrin (Salar), the doctor believed that my condition was not severe enough to warrant its use, so I was prescribed Celebrex instead. However, I am a...

Does Ankylosing Spondylitis Increase Risk of Low White or Red Blood Cells?

Does ankylosing spondylitis lead to a decrease in white blood cells or red blood cells? Hello, Doctor Gao. I am a 20-year-old patient with ankylosing spondylitis, diagnosed 3.5 years ago and currently undergoing stable treatment. I would like to ask you, excluding the effects of ...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Ankylosing spondylitis does not cause leukopenia; however, untreated long-term ankylosing spondylitis may lead to mild anemia due to chronic inflammation suppressing bone marrow hematopoiesis. Additionally, if severe pain or poor control necess...

Understanding Urticaria and Thyroid Test Results: Key Insights

Urticaria and Thyroid Testing After catching a cold at the end of February (with symptoms of sore throat and general weakness), I began to develop hives all over my body, particularly around my eyes and neck. I visited a clinic where I was prescribed steroids and received an inje...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. Is there a connection between urticaria and slightly elevated TSH levels? Do I need to see a rheumatologist for an examination? --> In cases of long-term urticaria, we sometimes check thyroid function. Your TSH is ...

Managing Weight Gain with Hypothyroidism: Tips and Advice

Hypothyroidism and weight gain? Hello Doctor, I just learned that I have hypothyroidism and have gained 25 kilograms over the past year. I am currently on medication, and my thyroid levels are normal, but I am still unable to lose weight. I have significant gray hair, often feel ...

Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, please consult with the physician who is currently monitoring your condition and prescribing medication. I'm not sure if the symptoms you mentioned are directly related to hypothyroidism; additional endocrine and internal medicine blood tests may be necessary.

Interpreting Blood Test Results for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Risk

Blood test report Based on the provided data, it is challenging to definitively diagnose acute myeloid leukemia (AML) without further clinical context and additional tests. However, several key laboratory findings may raise suspicion for hematological disorders, including AML: 1...

Dr. Li Yanquan Reply:
Please consult a specialized hematologist. Diagnosing a condition cannot rely solely on blood tests, as it can be very dangerous. Thank you.

Assessing Infection Risks from Handling Contaminated Clothing

Is there a risk of infection? On April 6, I helped a patient wash underwear stained with menstrual blood. I had several small wounds on my hands (including cuts from finger flesh and mosquito bites). The patient has a history of genital warts, so I am uncertain about their health...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. In principle, healthcare personnel should not have direct contact with patients' blood, body fluids, or wounds without gloves; they should wear gloves while performing procedures. 2. If there is accidental contact with an infectious wound, remember to first wash it thor...

Can You Get Infected from a Used Needle During Blood Draw?

Is there an infection? Hello doctor, the other day at the hospital, after a person had their blood drawn and left, I sat down next. I noticed that the needle cap used by the nurse was already opened and exposed to the air before she drew my blood. I suspect that the nurse did not...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected individual carries a risk of infectio...

Risk of Infection from Using a Potentially Used Hair Removal Razor

Infection issues Hello, doctor. Today I used a newly purchased hair removal razor to remove hair from my intimate area, but I found that the blade was already dull after use. I suspect it might be a returned item, as the packaging was just a simple adhesive type that does not con...

Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of HIV transmission: 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected individual or exchanging other bodily fluids ...

Understanding the Link Between EB Virus, CMV, and White Blood Cell Counts

The relationship between Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and leukocytes? Hello Doctor, I experienced fever along with swollen and painful bilateral inguinal lymph nodes at the beginning of February. I went for a urology examination, and the blood test was done ap...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. It is recommended to include the reference ranges for the test results to facilitate interpretation, as different hospitals may use different laboratory equipment, which can lead to variations in normal values. Additionally, although the total w...

Dietary Recommendations for Elderly Patients with Diabetes, Hypertension, and Kidney Issues

For patients with chronic kidney dysfunction, diabetes, and hypertension, it is important to follow a diet that helps manage these conditions. Here are some dietary recommendations: 1. **Limit Sodium Intake**: Reduce salt consumption to help control blood pressure. Aim for less ...

Dr. Lin Wuxuan Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to first take the elderly person to an outpatient clinic for examination and evaluation, and then consult a nutritionist for dietary advice. Thank you.

Understanding Proteinuria: Key Questions About Kidney Health and Lifestyle

Inquiry Consultation Dear Dr. Wu, I had a health check-up in September 2015, during which my fasting blood glucose level was 95 mg/dL; my estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) was 105 mL/min; my albumin level was 3.5 g/dL; and my albumin-to-globulin ratio was 1.6. All of t...

Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Q1. News reports online indicate that some doctors state: "Chronic kidney failure typically takes 20 to 30 years from the initial damage to the kidneys until dialysis is needed." Dr. Wu, is this statement accurate? Given that different stages of chronic kidney disease (...

Understanding Pre-Diabetes: Does It Affect Future Pancreatic Function?

Diabetes mellitus Previously, during a check-up for glycated hemoglobin, the doctor mentioned that some indices were slightly elevated, indicating prediabetes. After a period of self-management, my blood sugar levels are now normal. Given this medical history, will the pancreatic...

Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Typically, young individuals have a fast recovery of bodily functions. As long as there is no history of heavy drinking, pancreatic function is unlikely to be affected. However, regular monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary. Thank you for your inquiry.

Understanding Your Immune Report: What Do the Results Mean?

Immunology Report Issues Dear Dr. Gao, I recently received the following immunology report from my blood test: - Ro-52: (+) - OJ: (-) - EJ: (-) - PL-12: (-) - PL-7: (++) - SRP: (-) - Jo-1: (-) - PM-Scl75: (-) - PM-Scl100: (-) - Ku: (-) - SAE1: (-) - NXP2: (-) - MDA5: (-) - TIF1...

Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Some of the results do not have reference values, as different hospitals may use different testing machines and reference values, making interpretation difficult. The other results that can be somewhat assessed are as follows: Anti-dsDNA 30.8 WH...

Can Wearing a Used Bracelet Increase HIV Infection Risk?

Concerns about the risk of HIV infection? Hello, doctor! A few years ago, I purchased a clasp-style bracelet from a small online seller (which seems to have gone out of business since). After I put it on, I accidentally pinched the skin on my arm, which was very painful and cause...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the situation you mentioned is unlikely to indicate an HIV infection. However, if you are feeling very uncomfortable, you may consider getting tested for HIV. Thank you for your inquiry.

Assessing Bone Marrow Suppression Risks from Salazopyrin Use

Have I already experienced bone marrow suppression as a side effect from taking Salazopyrin? Hello Dr. Tseng, I would like to ask you another question. I am a patient with ankylosing spondylitis, and my main symptom is pain in the buttocks. Since my blood test on March 2 of last ...

Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
The user's PLT and WBC are within normal ranges, but Hb is slightly low. Drug-induced bone marrow suppression typically affects WBC and PLT, so it is okay to continue the medication. Follow up with the attending physician for further discussion. There is no need to take iron...

Understanding Undiagnosed Systemic Involvement in Connective Tissue Disorders

Regarding systemic invasion of connective tissue and (invasion, involvement), not explicitly stated? Recently, I frequently experienced mouth ulcers and visited the rheumatology department. Blood tests showed normal immune indices, but the doctor prescribed colchicine and iron su...

Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
Colchicine has anti-inflammatory properties and is commonly used for the prevention and acute treatment of gout. Clinically, it can be used for the preventive treatment of chronic idiopathic oral ulcers. The physician's diagnosis refers to the meaning of idiopathic diseases.

Concerns About Parasite Infection After Eating Snail in Vegetables

Parasitic issues? Hello Doctor: I have a habit of steaming vegetables. However, during dinner the day before yesterday, I accidentally bit into a small snail (and even broke its shell) in the vegetables. Although I immediately spat it out, I am still worried about the risk of par...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. It is impossible to predict whether all of them are cooked. 2. Unless one is traveling to areas with a high prevalence of parasites, such as Africa, or during outbreaks of infections, preventive medication is rarely necessary. 3. If there are gastrointestinal discomfort...

Understanding Urine Odor: What Pineapple and Health Indicators Mean

The odor of urine? Hello, doctor. After eating pineapple yesterday, I went to the bathroom and noticed a somewhat pungent smell, somewhat resembling pineapple. I'm quite worried because I had a weak positive for protein in my urine during a high school health check seven yea...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, many foods, including pineapple, can indeed affect the odor of urine. Therefore, the situation you mentioned is a normal physiological phenomenon. As long as there is no noticeable foam or blood in your urine, there is no cause for concern. Thank you for your question.

Understanding Recurring Skin Infections: Causes and Treatments

Skin infection issues? There is a specific area on my calf that has become particularly rough due to prolonged friction with my pants. The skin in that area is darker, approximately 2.5 cm in size. Later, I experienced a sensation of a foreign body, and upon applying pressure, I ...

Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the condition you mentioned is likely folliculitis. You can use iodine ointment or antibiotic ointment. It's important to avoid squeezing or picking at it. Typically, this condition occurs more easily in hot and humid environments, so it's recommended to wear bre...

Understanding Kidney Function Tests and Chronic Kidney Disease in Seniors

Kidney function tests Hello Doctor: I would like to ask about a 90-year-old patient whose glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was found to be in the range of stage 2 during a blood test in early March. Does this indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD), or should we wait for the next b...

Dr. Huang Yaoxuan Reply:
Hello Matza: 1. "Chronic" kidney disease refers to a condition where kidney function abnormalities persist for a duration of 3 to 6 months with minimal variation. 2. Regarding the 90-year-old elder you mentioned, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) falls within stag...

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