Is It Lupus? Understanding ANA and Blood Test Results
Is it systemic lupus erythematosus? ANA 640X, WBC 3300, Eosinophils 6%, Lymphocytes 45%, Hct 37.1%, Albumin 4.64 g/dL, Globulin 3.22 g/dL, A/G Ratio 1.44, GOT and GPT normal, total bilirubin 0.96 (slightly elevated). Is this indicative of systemic lupus erythematosus?
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
ANA 1:640X, WBC: 3300, with other results within normal limits. Based on the information provided in your letter, it cannot be directly confirmed as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). The diagnosis of SLE requires meeting at least four out of eleven clinical criteria for a defin...[Read More] Is It Lupus? Understanding ANA and Blood Test Results
Can People with Allergies Donate Blood? Understanding the Guidelines
General knowledge Can people with allergies donate blood?
Dr. Yang Jun Reply:
Hello, Miss Pink: The general blood donation process involves screening for infectious diseases (such as hepatitis and AIDS) and ensuring that the donor's physical condition and hemoglobin levels are not too low (to avoid anemia), in order to prevent discomfort for the donor...[Read More] Can People with Allergies Donate Blood? Understanding the Guidelines
Understanding Persistent Sleepiness: Possible Causes and Concerns
Somnolence Hello Dr. Tseng: I would like to ask about my condition. From May 11 to May 13, I experienced prolonged drowsiness and fatigue. The week prior, I had persistent swelling in my legs and elevated uric acid levels, for which I have been taking medication to manage. I have...
Dr. Zeng Guosen Reply:
1. There are many causes for drowsiness and lethargy, which can be psychological or physiological. Physiological causes include medications, infections, organ dysfunction (heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, endocrine), electrolyte imbalances, and abnormalities in blood glucose levels,...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Sleepiness: Possible Causes and Concerns
When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
When do the side effects of tuberculosis medications subside? I was diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis in mid-November 1990 after sputum culture results came back positive, while chest X-ray and sputum tests at that time showed no abnormalities. I have been on medication for 2...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Reply to the soldier: You are currently taking four medications for tuberculosis. The most significant side effects include hepatitis, jaundice, and hyperuricemia. If you experience any rash or symptoms of fatigue, it is advisable to stop the medication immediately and go to the ...[Read More] When Will Side Effects of Tuberculosis Medication Subside?
Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: Causes and Related Symptoms
Cervical lymph nodes There is swelling above the clavicle in the area of the lymph nodes in my neck, which is slightly painful when pressed. What could be the cause of this? Additionally, I have been experiencing frequent hair loss, acne, and easy fatigue. Are these symptoms rela...
Dr. Ke Zhengchang Reply:
Hello Jojo: 1. Common causes of lymphadenopathy in the head include tuberculosis and lymphoma, and a biopsy is necessary for confirmation (please consult an otolaryngologist). 2. Hepatitis B carriers may experience fatigue; it is recommended to undergo liver function tests for mo...[Read More] Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: Causes and Related Symptoms
Understanding Adrenal Issues: Weight Gain and Health Concerns
~Adrenal gland issues~ Hello Doctor: Last week, I visited the endocrinology department at Kaohsiung Medical University because I gained 25 kg in a year. I used to weigh 57 kg, and now I weigh 82 kg. I eat very little and do not feel hungry. The doctor suspects that there may be a...
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Fatty liver is caused by endocrine disorders, hyperlipidemia, alcohol consumption, or viral hepatitis. Therefore, it may be necessary to treat the underlying conditions, and it is hoped that follow-up can be conducted in the gastroenterology and hepatology department.[Read More] Understanding Adrenal Issues: Weight Gain and Health Concerns
Living with Cirrhosis: Can You Maintain Daily Life Without Medical Care?
Cirrhosis and Daily Life As mentioned in the question, if one does not seek medical attention, can they continue to live normally in the short term?
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
Cirrhosis is a condition caused by chronic hepatitis that leads to liver damage. It is important to prevent complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, and esophageal variceal bleeding. Regular follow-up with a gastroenterologist is recommended.[Read More] Living with Cirrhosis: Can You Maintain Daily Life Without Medical Care?
Understanding Chronic Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Always feeling fatigued? Hello Dr. Kuo, I have been feeling fatigued for the past few years, and it has severely affected my daily work and life. I feel drowsy and lack energy every day. Today, I went to the hospital in Taoyuan for a blood test, and the results showed that I have...
Dr. Guo Conghuai Reply:
Hello Mr. Elton: Blood tests should not indicate fatty liver; it is typically diagnosed through ultrasound. High blood lipids usually do not cause fatigue; it is advisable to address lifestyle stressors. The causes of fatty liver include alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of ...[Read More] Understanding Chronic Fatigue: Causes and Solutions for Your Symptoms
Understanding Your Health Check Report: Low White Blood Cells and Elevated Liver Function
Regarding the health examination report? A low white blood cell count of 3280/ml, elevated blood lipids, elevated liver function indices, and mild hematuria in the examination report may indicate several potential health issues. 1. **Low White Blood Cell Count (Leukopenia)**: T...
Dr. Li Huixiong Reply:
Sorry! The information you provided is incomplete. Please attach the data from the test report. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Your Health Check Report: Low White Blood Cells and Elevated Liver Function
Understanding Negative Hepatitis B Antigen Results: What Does It Mean?
Hepatitis B Hello Dr. Tseng: I have undergone testing for hepatitis B, and the report indicates that the hepatitis B antigen is negative. I would like to ask if this means I am infected with hepatitis B. If I am, what should I do? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questi...
Dr. Zeng Fenyu Reply:
The hepatitis B surface antibody is negative, which can indicate two scenarios. One scenario is that the hepatitis B antibody is also negative, indicating that you have never been infected with hepatitis B and are suitable for receiving the hepatitis B vaccine. The other scenario...[Read More] Understanding Negative Hepatitis B Antigen Results: What Does It Mean?
Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Hepatitis B Patients
Hepatitis B & Fetal Protein I started experiencing abnormal GPT levels between 30-40 (normal value 35 U/L) since June 2000, with fetal protein at 2.9 ng/ml (normal value 25 ng/ml). The e-antigen was negative; e-antibody was positive; core antibody was positive. However, on De...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
As a carrier of hepatitis B, you only need to undergo ultrasound and tests for GOT, GPT, and AFP every 3 to 6 months (performed by a gastroenterologist), and you do not need to take medication at this time.[Read More] Understanding Elevated Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Hepatitis B Patients
Common Questions About Hepatitis B Vaccine: Answers from a Doctor
Please ask any questions related to the hepatitis B vaccine! Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask the following questions: 1. It is said that the optimal location for vaccine injection is the center of the deltoid muscle in the upper arm. However, when I received my first dose o...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
1. Vaccines are more effective when injected into the arm, while injections into the shoulder area may be less effective, but they are not necessarily ineffective. You can check for antibody formation after the injection. 2. There have been similar concerns in Europe and the Un...[Read More] Common Questions About Hepatitis B Vaccine: Answers from a Doctor
Common Questions About Hepatitis B Vaccine: Dosage, Timing, and Safety
Please ask questions related to the hepatitis B vaccine? Hello Dr. Yang, I would like to ask you the following questions: 1. It is said that the best location for administering the adult hepatitis B vaccine is in the center of the deltoid muscle in the upper arm. However, I rec...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
1. Vaccines are more effective when injected into the arm, while injections into the shoulder area may be less effective, but they are not necessarily ineffective. You can check for antibody formation after the injection. 2. There is no difference. 3. There have been similar ...[Read More] Common Questions About Hepatitis B Vaccine: Dosage, Timing, and Safety
Recent Statistics on Liver Disease Mortality Rates in Taiwan
Please provide the content you would like I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
The incidence of liver cancer varies significantly around the world (Table 1), but it is recognized as one of the most common malignant tumors in humans. In Taiwan, the incidence of liver cancer remains alarmingly high. According to statistics from the Department of Health, in 19...[Read More] Recent Statistics on Liver Disease Mortality Rates in Taiwan
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Causes and Management Options
Liver Hello: My liver function (G.P.T) is 49, while the normal value is 30. I have no infection with hepatitis B or C. Why is my liver function index elevated? Do I need medication to control it?
Dr. Hong Hongchang Reply:
In Taiwan, the most common causes of hepatitis are hepatitis B and C. However, other factors such as alcohol abuse, medications, and excessive work can also lead to abnormal liver function. In your case, there is no need for medication; instead, you should focus on getting plenty...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes: Causes and Management Options
Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Insights for Office Workers
Gastrointestinal discomfort? Hello! I am an office worker and spend most of my time sitting in the office. I have low physical activity, and my Hepatitis B surface antigen is positive, while the e antigen is negative. My weight and height are 70 kg and 173 cm, respectively. I smo...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
1. Your condition may involve hepatitis B, fatty liver, duodenal ulcer, and irritable bowel syndrome, along with renal insufficiency. Please start by losing weight, quitting smoking, and undergoing triple therapy for the treatment of the duodenal ulcer. 2. The presence of hepat...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Insights for Office Workers
Understanding Hepatitis B: Symptoms, Treatment, and Liver Health Concerns
Hepatitis B I am a carrier of hepatitis B, but I have never experienced any symptoms of hepatitis. I have always had a poor appearance and high levels of irritability. In recent years, I have felt pressure in the area near my liver, and I feel discomfort when sleeping on my left ...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
After taking Lamivudine for three months, if your GOT and GPT levels are still so high, please consider other causes of your hepatitis. You should visit our clinic for further investigation, as you may not need to continue taking liver protection medication.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B: Symptoms, Treatment, and Liver Health Concerns
Managing Hormone Use and Liver Function in Menopausal Women
Hormone Use and Liver Function Dear Dr. Yang, My mother is 58 years old and has a history of diabetes, fatty liver disease, and impaired liver function. Recently, due to her liver issues, her doctor recommended discontinuing hormone therapy, which has left her struggling with me...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
It is recommended to continue hormone therapy. As for fatty liver and hepatitis, treatment should be sought at our clinic.[Read More] Managing Hormone Use and Liver Function in Menopausal Women
Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Do You Need a Booster?
Hepatitis B vaccine I received the hepatitis B vaccine 7 years ago, and in a recent test, my HBsAg was negative and Anti-HBs was negative. Does this indicate that the antibodies have disappeared? Is the hepatitis B vaccine considered lifelong immunity? Do I need to get revaccinat...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
The protection from the hepatitis B vaccine lasts approximately ten years on average. In your case, the effectiveness has diminished, so receiving another dose of the hepatitis B vaccine is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Hepatitis B Vaccination: Do You Need a Booster?
Understanding GOT and GPT: Normal Ranges and Implications for Health
GOT (Glutamate Oxaloacetate Transaminase), also known as AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase), and GPT (Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase), also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase), are enzymes found in the liver and other tissues. Normal reference ranges for these enzymes can va...
Dr. Yang Guojun Reply:
Mild elevation of GOT and GPT in biochemical blood tests indicates the presence of hepatitis; however, the clinical significance and severity must be determined through ultrasound examination and the presence of hepatitis B virus infection.[Read More] Understanding GOT and GPT: Normal Ranges and Implications for Health