Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can it be confirmed or not? Doctor, I am from Tainan. On October 7th, I was at high risk. On October 14th, I experienced abdominal pain and diarrhea. On October 18th, I went to a testing facility for an RTPCR test (negative), and the P24 test was also (negative). On November 2nd,...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. A-Kai: 1. HIV RT-PCR is primarily used in the early stages of HIV infection, approximately around 7 days post-exposure. If infection has occurred, the viral load is very low, so PCR is utilized in the laboratory to amplify the viral quantity, allowing for the detection ...[Read More] Can I Trust My Test Results? Understanding Persistent Symptoms and Diagnosis
Is Lymphadenopathy Four Months After Unprotected Sex Related to HIV?
Lymphadenopathy appeared four months after anal intercourse? In early July of this year, I had sexual intercourse with a man. At first, we used a condom, but towards the end, I suddenly realized he had removed it, so I don't know how long I was exposed without protection. Re...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers, regarding <enlarged cervical lymph nodes...> the response is as follows: A: 1. Engaging in unsafe sexual practices (including withdrawal during intercourse) places individuals at high risk for sexually transmitted infections (including HIV). Please do not ta...[Read More] Is Lymphadenopathy Four Months After Unprotected Sex Related to HIV?
Identifying Cellulitis in Oral Wounds: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Bacterial issues related to oral wounds? Hello, doctor: Can we visually determine cellulitis from a painful oral wound? Is a painful oral wound with lymphadenopathy considered early-stage cellulitis? Thank you.
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. The constant secretion of saliva and eating in the oral cavity can cause pain at the wound site and a decrease in appetite. 2. Whether there are oral ulcers (such as those caused by enteroviruses) or cellulitis should be determined by a physician. It is recommend...[Read More] Identifying Cellulitis in Oral Wounds: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Acute HIV infection phase? Hello Doctor, I started feeling unwell around August 29, experiencing fever and fatigue. On August 30, I had blood tests showing a CRP of 7.490 (all other biochemical parameters were normal), WBC of 12,870, Neutrophils 70.8%, Lymphocytes 19.9%, and Mono...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: According to the Centers for Disease Control website (http://www.cdc.gov.tw), 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 ...[Read More] Understanding Acute HIV Infection: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Can Syphilis Test Results Ever Be Zero? Understanding Transmission Risks
Can the syphilis index be zero? I would like to ask, if I only have a positive TPHA and negative RPR or VDRL, can I still transmit the infection to others? The test was conducted two years ago, and I received treatment at that time. This year, during follow-up, my titers have dec...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: <Can the index for syphilis be zero?> The response is as follows: According to the data from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) (see attachment) on page 5, the case definition for reporting conditions is as follows: 1. Clinical conditions: (1) The pre...[Read More] Can Syphilis Test Results Ever Be Zero? Understanding Transmission Risks
Understanding Thyroid Tumors: Insights on Surgery and Follow-Up Care
Thyroid tumor Hello, doctor. I have a nodule on my right side that has been monitored and aspirated, both results indicating it is benign. I found it bothersome, so I opted for surgical intervention. The doctor performed a unilateral total thyroidectomy to remove the tumor (nodul...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Shine: 1. If a thyroid nodule appears hard and is accompanied by cervical lymphadenopathy, malignant transformation should be considered. If a long-standing goiter suddenly enlarges rapidly, accompanied by localized skin redness and fever, differentiated thyroid carcino...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Tumors: Insights on Surgery and Follow-Up Care
Understanding Bruising and Bleeding: Could It Be Leukemia?
Bruising and bleeding during brushing? Hello, doctor. I have two or three unexplained bruises on my body and I've been experiencing bleeding while brushing my teeth, so I went for blood tests. My white blood cell count was normal, and I had two tests done about a month apart...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Chiu Rong-Ching: 1. Leukemia, also known as blood cancer, is characterized by the abnormal and uncontrolled proliferation of precursor cells of granulocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, or leukocytes, leading to a reduction in normal white blood cells. It includes acute lym...[Read More] Understanding Bruising and Bleeding: Could It Be Leukemia?
Understanding ANA 1:160 Homogeneous Pattern and Its Implications
ANA 1:160 homogeneous type Hello, Doctor Gao. My mother has a family history of immune dysfunction, and she herself has experienced immune system irregularities. Eight years ago, she began to notice unexplained joint pain, primarily affecting her right ankle and the joints of her...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, Xiao Yuan. The ANA value of 160 is slightly elevated, which requires further examination. Additionally, since you are experiencing some joint pain symptoms and lymphadenopathy, it is indeed advisable to conduct further tests on your immune function. Please prepare your lab...[Read More] Understanding ANA 1:160 Homogeneous Pattern and Its Implications
Can Oral Sex Transmit Chlamydia? Weight Loss Concerns Explained
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) Hello Dr. Liao, 1. Can chlamydia be transmitted through oral sex? 2. What tests should be conducted if there is a sudden and significant weight loss?
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. There is a wide variety of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with syphilis and HIV being the most notable. 2. The method of sexual activity can lead to STIs in different areas; typically, these infections are located in the perineal region (both anterior a...[Read More] Can Oral Sex Transmit Chlamydia? Weight Loss Concerns Explained
Understanding Lymphadenopathy and Rash: Possible Causes and Insights
Lymphoma rash Hello Doctor: Recently, I've been feeling somewhat unwell, and I'm not sure if it qualifies as an illness. I kindly ask for your preliminary assessment. Around the end of April this year, I noticed a swollen lymph node in my neck, which was accompanied by ...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Hello: 1. If you have a fever along with a rash and have recently visited the beach or mountains, it is possible that you may have contracted scrub typhus. 2. It is recommended that you check for rashes or insect bite marks in areas such as the armpits, around the navel, the groi...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy and Rash: Possible Causes and Insights
Post-Weight Loss Symptoms: Hair Loss, Rashes, and Lymph Node Swelling
Aftereffects of weight loss? Hello, Doctor: Last year, after taking traditional Chinese medicine for four months, I lost over 20 kilograms, but then I suddenly experienced significant hair loss (my hair was already thin and soft). I also had two episodes of widespread skin rashes...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Rapid weight loss can indeed lead to hair loss; however, if accompanied by rashes and lymphadenopathy, further investigation is necessary. Generally, a physician will examine the scalp to determine whether the hair loss is simply due to alopecia...[Read More] Post-Weight Loss Symptoms: Hair Loss, Rashes, and Lymph Node Swelling
Can Thyroid Dysfunction Cause Sore Throat and Neck Lymph Node Swelling?
excuse me? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if thyroid dysfunction can cause throat pain or enlargement of the cervical lymph nodes. I only found information online mentioning weight loss, and I want to confirm if throat pain can occur. Thank you very much.
Dr. Lü Jing Reply:
Hyperthyroidism, particularly in the case of Graves' disease, may occasionally present with neck pain and lymphadenopathy.[Read More] Can Thyroid Dysfunction Cause Sore Throat and Neck Lymph Node Swelling?
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Food Allergies and Gut Health Connection
請提供 I have lymphadenopathy that may be related to food allergies and potential issues with the intestinal mucosa. The lymph nodes in areas such as the upper thighs and armpits are swollen significantly, and they are increasing in size, although they are not painful. I am experien...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
The causal relationship may not be as such, as food allergies typically do not cause lymphadenopathy in these areas. Regarding the latter part of the question, it has been previously addressed and will not be repeated. For certain conditions, it is advisable to seek medical atten...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Food Allergies and Gut Health Connection
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Allergic Reactions: A Guide
Lymph There are severe swellings in areas with lymph nodes, such as multiple enlarged nodes in the upper thighs and armpits, which are increasing in size and are painless. What could be the cause? Additionally, I have reactions to various foods, such as a small amount of dairy pr...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Localized lymphadenopathy usually indicates an infection in the surrounding area. If multiple sites are involved, it is more likely to be a systemic response. Certain infections, such as toxoplasmosis or cat scratch fever, can cause lymphadenopathy in different locations. Additio...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling and Allergic Reactions: A Guide
Understanding Submandibular Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Symptoms
Submandibular lymphadenopathy Hello Doctor, I recently noticed a swelling about 3 centimeters below my left jaw near the ear, roughly the size of a five-dollar coin. It feels round and movable, but it doesn't hurt when I press on it. However, sometimes I experience a slight ...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Based on your description, this lump may be a lymph node, as it is movable, which suggests a higher likelihood of being benign. If it is caused by an infection in the surrounding tissue, it may resolve on its own. However, if it does not disappear after 3-4 weeks, it is advisable...[Read More] Understanding Submandibular Lymphadenopathy: Causes and Symptoms
What Does a Hard Lump and Dark Skin on the Neck Indicate?
The presence of a hard lump in the neck accompanied by darkening of the skin may indicate a variety of conditions, including but not limited to lymphadenopathy, cysts, or even more serious conditions such as malignancies or infections. It is important to consult a healthcare prof...
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Hello: The most common cause of a hard lump in the neck is lymphadenopathy, and it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) first.[Read More] What Does a Hard Lump and Dark Skin on the Neck Indicate?
Hard Lump in Left Groin: What Could It Be?
There is a hard lump in the left groin area... it feels strange? Hello Doctor: I suddenly noticed a hard, raised structure on the inner side of my left thigh near the groin. It feels similar to a blood vessel, but it is distinctly prominent and can be felt easily. It is hard but ...
Dr. Lin Mingfeng Reply:
Based on your description, if there is pulsation, it is more likely to be a typical blood vessel. Although lymph nodes can appear in clusters, they rarely present as a single smooth strip. If you are unable to confirm this, you can visit a general internal medicine or family medi...[Read More] Hard Lump in Left Groin: What Could It Be?
Understanding the Connection Between Bloating and Lymph Node Pain
Lymph nodes Hello, doctor. I have been experiencing frequent bloating in my stomach, to the point where I sometimes can't sleep well. Following that, I feel pain in my lymph nodes and nerves throughout my body. Is there a connection between these symptoms?
Dr. Yang Hongzhi Reply:
Generalized lymphadenopathy is not a common clinical symptom; it is likely neuropathic pain and does not have a direct correlation with gastrointestinal symptoms.[Read More] Understanding the Connection Between Bloating and Lymph Node Pain
Understanding Leg Swelling and Heel Pain: Causes and Treatments
Lower limb lymphadenopathy Hello Dr. Yao, I have two symptoms: 1. There is a hard lump about the size of a half peanut near the left leg at the popliteal fossa; I have noticed it for about three weeks, and sometimes it seems to be smaller. 2. After getting out of bed, I exp...
Dr. Yao Quan Reply:
Dear Mr. Yao, Hello. The hard lump at the acupoint "Shu Xi" may be considered as lymphadenopathy, which could be caused by inflammation, tumors, or other factors. I recommend that you visit our general surgery outpatient department, where the physician will assess the ...[Read More] Understanding Leg Swelling and Heel Pain: Causes and Treatments
Understanding the Incubation Period of HIV: Key Insights for Testing
The incubation period for HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) can vary significantly among individuals. Typically, the time from exposure to the virus to the development of detectable antibodies can range from 2 to 12 weeks, with most people testing positive within 4 to 6 weeks He...
Dr. Xie Yonghui Reply:
Hello Mr. Tom: The progression of HIV infection is illustrated as follows: Virus infection ==> Acute symptoms appear after several weeks or months: lymphadenopathy, splenomegaly, sweating, fever, fatigue, skin rashes, muscle and joint pain, sore throat ==> Symptoms resolve ...[Read More] Understanding the Incubation Period of HIV: Key Insights for Testing