Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Regarding issue #201311? Regarding your inquiry about the risks of HIV and other bloodborne diseases: 1. There is a potential risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases if a wound or blood comes into direct contact with mucous membranes or broken skin. However, if the area around...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. If there is no contact with the skin where the fingers touched, theoretically, there is no risk of transmission (referring to the absence of blood, not just the lack of visible blood). 2. The risk is extremely low because the virus must travel from the bloodstain to the ointm...[Read More] Understanding Risks of Bloodborne Diseases: Key Concerns and Clarifications
Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Long-term post-nasal drip has recently worsened, presenting symptoms such as fever, neck swelling, and pharyngeal pain? I suspect I have an infection in my nose, which is causing post-nasal drip and resulting in coughing. This symptom has persisted for about six months (since Apr...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, it is recommended to visit the ENT department of a major hospital today (10/9) to confirm what the neck mass is. It is most likely lymphadenopathy, which is just an inflammatory response, possibly caused by a new wave of tonsillitis starting from 10/6. This is separate fro...[Read More] Managing Chronic Post-Nasal Drip with Fever and Neck Swelling: When to Seek Emergency Care
Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Concerns and anxiety about medical consultations, worrying about blood and infectious diseases? Hello Doctor: Yesterday, I took my child to a pediatric clinic for a urology consultation. During the consultation, I noticed that the physician had a noticeable laceration at the base...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Direct contact of wounds or blood with mucous membranes or broken skin may pose a risk of transmitting bloodborne diseases. However, if there is blood at the base of the fingernail and the finger touches intact skin, theoretically, there is a risk of transmission. 2. The surf...[Read More] Concerns About Bloodborne Diseases During Pediatric Urology Visits
Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
HIV testing issues? Hello, I would like to inquire about the Abbott fourth-generation HIV Early test, which can detect both antigens and antibodies. The antigen can be detected one month after exposure; however, regarding the antibody testing, can it still yield results if it has...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the fourth-generation rapid test detects both antigens and antibodies. It is expected that a positive result could be detected in about two weeks, but individual responses vary; some people may take three to four months to test positive. (A positive result for either antig...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Antigen and Antibody Detection Timelines
Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Regarding dental care? Hello, Doctor. I'm sorry, but I'm feeling very anxious. Yesterday, I went to the clinic for a dental check-up and cleaning. The dentist who attended to me kept chatting with the clinic staff while examining me. During the cleaning, water splashed ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, to be honest, based on the scenario you described, there doesn't seem to be a significant risk of infection unless there is reasonable evidence to suspect that the clinic has reused disposable medical materials or has not properly sterilized them (which would not be b...[Read More] Concerns About Dental Hygiene: Anxiety Over Clinic Practices and Safety
Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Immune system issues Hello, Doctor Gao. I have a few questions to ask you, and I appreciate your help. 1. At the beginning of August, I developed a urinary tract infection and took antibiotics for two weeks. The symptoms disappeared, and I thought I was cured, so I didn't ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I believe there is a high possibility of reactive arthritis, especially considering your age and the occurrence of acute prostatitis along with unexplained joint effusion and swelling. I recommend that you consult a rheumatologist nearby. The Al...[Read More] Understanding Immune System Issues: Symptoms and Concerns Explained
Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Transmission routes of HIV (ocular) Is it possible to get HIV infection if HIV-infected bodily fluids come into contact with the eyes?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual Transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-...[Read More] Can HIV Be Transmitted Through Eye Exposure to Infected Fluids?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
What is the likelihood of contracting the HIV virus? Hello Doctor: - I had contact with a sex worker on August 16: unprotected oral sex and protected vaginal intercourse. - About 3 to 4 days after the incident, I felt a slight tingling sensation on the glans and noticed white or...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-in...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection After Sexual Encounter
Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
It is unclear whether the ascites is caused by kidney issues or liver problems. How can this be addressed? I have hepatitis B, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. Targeted therapy was interrupted due to side effects, and the hospital suddenly informed us that I am now in the late stage ...
Dr. Yan Qitai Reply:
Considering your condition, it is recommended to continue follow-up visits and treatment with the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Department as well as the Nephrology Department. The physician will provide appropriate medical advice based on your condition during each visit. Depa...[Read More] Managing Ascites: Navigating Kidney and Liver Issues in Advanced Disease
Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Autoimmune diseases Hello, Director Gao. I would like to ask you a question. Previously, I experienced full-body itching and developed hives whenever I returned home. After seeing a doctor, I took antihistamines for over a month, and now I no longer itch, but I still occasionally...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. Here are my responses: 1. An ANA titer of 1:80 is considered low, and if there are no symptoms, we usually recommend monitoring. 2. In cases of chronic urticaria, we sometimes test for syphilis, as untreated syphilis infection can lead to prolo...[Read More] Understanding Autoimmune Diseases: What Does a Positive ANA Test Mean?
Are Pork and Beef Tapeworm Infections Rare in Taiwan Today?
Parasitic issues? Doctor, may I ask if infections from pork tapeworms and beef tapeworms are now quite rare in Taiwan? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
It is likely because we rarely have the opportunity to consume raw or undercooked pork and beef (tapeworms can also be killed by freezing), which is why such infection cases are not commonly encountered in Taiwan![Read More] Are Pork and Beef Tapeworm Infections Rare in Taiwan Today?
Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Needle stick injury without testing for more than six months? Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if, after more than six months since the injection, a recent blood test can show negative or positive results without prior testing. The injection was done with an insulin needle, and ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
1. First, it is essential to identify which patient the needle belongs to and whether they have any bloodborne infectious diseases, such as HBV, HCV, HIV, or syphilis. 2. Since the window period has already passed, testing at this point can determine if there is an infection. 3. ...[Read More] Impact of Delayed Testing After Insulin Injection: What to Expect
Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Inquiry about the red text on the health check-up report? Hello Dr. Lin: I just received my health check report and noticed some red flags that are causing me a lot of concern. I would like to ask if there are any of these red flags that can be improved through daily habits, such...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, the MCH value is primarily for reference; any issues related to anemia should be assessed based on hemoglobin (Hb) levels. Urinary ketones may test positive after prolonged fasting, and the presence of leukocyte esterase in urine suggests a possible urinary tract inflammat...[Read More] Understanding Red Flags on Your Health Check Report: Expert Advice
Concerns About Wild Dog Encounters: Infection Risks and Precautions
Stray dog issue Hello doctor, today I went up the mountain with my family and while riding a motorcycle, two or three wild dogs suddenly rushed towards us, barking loudly. It was quite frightening, but fortunately, they did not chase us afterward. During the encounter, I don'...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If the skin is intact and without wounds, there should be no risk of infectious diseases. Thank you for your inquiry.[Read More] Concerns About Wild Dog Encounters: Infection Risks and Precautions
Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Transmission routes of HIV (needle stick) If I was injured by a needle on the seat of a motorcycle while moving it in the morning, and if that needle had HIV-infected blood on it, would I be at risk of contracting HIV from the injury? Why or why not?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) data: 1. There are three main transmission routes for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or any other exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected...[Read More] Can You Contract HIV from a Needle Stick Injury on a Motorcycle Seat?
Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?
Eating food that contains cockroaches? 1. I found a small dead cockroach in my bowl while having breakfast. I'm not sure if it was crushed by the food or scalded by the freshly cooked food. At that moment, I didn't think much of it and continued eating. Halfway through,...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
1. Theoretically, there is a risk of transmission, but in practice, the number of human infection cases domestically is quite low, and the risk of transmission from a single exposure is very low. 2. The roundworm typically resides in locations such as the oral cavity and esopha...[Read More] Concerns About Eating Food Contaminated with Cockroaches: What to Do?
Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Risk of HIV Infection Hello Dr. Lin, today after washing my clothes, I noticed a few small dried blood stains on them while hanging them out to dry. I absentmindedly picked at them, but I couldn't confirm if the blood was mine, as I hadn't noticed it before. Later, I we...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello, viruses die quickly outside the human body and are unlikely to remain on dried blood stains. It is even more difficult for them to be transmitted by touching your hands, then touching a tissue, and subsequently coming into contact with the urethra. There is no need to worr...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV Infection from Unknown Blood Exposure
Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?
Is there a risk of HIV infection from a scratched area in the groin? Recently, I had sexual relations with a sex worker. About 1-2 months later, I noticed that my groin area had been scratched and was red, with some broken skin, but there was no significant bleeding. I used a con...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, 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 o...[Read More] Can Scratched Groin Skin Lead to HIV Infection After Safe Sex?
Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare
Infection risk Hello, doctor. Recently, during my internship at the hospital, someone left an alcohol swab contaminated with a patient's blood on the table. While I was reaching for gloves, my finger accidentally touched it. I have a habit of picking at my thumb, so I'm...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), there are three main routes of transmission for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse or other exchanges of bodily fluids with an HIV-infecte...[Read More] Assessing Infection Risks from Accidental Blood Exposure in Healthcare
Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?
HIV Transmission Routes (Food) If you have an oral wound and consume water or food that contains HIV-infected bodily fluids, there is a potential risk of HIV transmission. However, the likelihood of transmission through oral exposure is considered to be very low. HIV is primarily...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan, there are three main routes of HIV transmission: A. Sexual transmission: Engaging in sexual activities such as oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse, or any exchange of bodily fluids with an HIV-infected ind...[Read More] Can You Get HIV from Food or Water Contaminated with Infected Blood?