Can Imiquimod Cream Boost Immunity After Wart Treatment?
Once the surface of the cauliflower-like lesion has healed, can I apply the topical medication for immunotherapy? I previously asked about the situation where the surface appears to have healed after applying medication, but I am unsure if the virus is still present beneath the s...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, the medication you mentioned, Phenol Red ointment, primarily works by enhancing local immunity to combat warts. However, its actual effectiveness can vary from person to person. Clinically, the decision to use such immune-boosting ointments is based on the symptoms present...[Read More] Can Imiquimod Cream Boost Immunity After Wart Treatment?
Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Barbershops: Key Questions Answered
Inquiry about routes of HIV transmission? Hello, Director. I apologize for asking a few questions. 1) A few days ago, while getting a haircut, I was accidentally scraped on my cheek and neck with a folding razor. The razor had been used by the previous customer about 2 minutes ...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: 1. Razors can cause small cuts and bleeding, which means there is a risk of transmitting HIV or other bloodborne diseases through sharing razors. It is recommended to avoid sharing razors with others. 2. This cannot be statistically quantified, as individuals infected with...[Read More] Understanding HIV Transmission Risks in Barbershops: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Throat Issues: Insights on Tonsil Stones and Inflammation
Follow-up on throat issues? Hello Dr. Hong, I consulted you yesterday and today I visited an ENT specialist. The doctor said there was nothing unusual in my nose, just some nasal congestion, and my throat was slightly inflamed. He mentioned that the sensation of something stuck i...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it does seem to align with what your doctor mentioned about having inflammation in the throat along with stones. It is recommended to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. As for the apple cider vinegar, it appears to be an internet rumor without...[Read More] Understanding Throat Issues: Insights on Tonsil Stones and Inflammation
Understanding Normal Variations in Genital Appearance: A Medical Perspective
What are the issues related to the reproductive organs? Hello doctor, I visited a urologist at the end of 2019 because I noticed a yellowish-white spot on the surface of my glans. Sometimes, when I shower, it appears less noticeable, and I feel like it varies between being obviou...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the image, it appears to be some glands on the glans rather than an infectious disease. If there have been no significant changes over the past two years, it is advisable to simply monitor the situation unless there are any notable changes that would require a fol...[Read More] Understanding Normal Variations in Genital Appearance: A Medical Perspective
Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure in Hospitals: What to Know
Infected with an unknown liquid in the hospital? Thank you for the doctor's initial response. I encountered an unknown yellow-brown residue (possibly povidone-iodine or another substance) at a local hospital in Vietnam. I would like to confirm with the doctor whether "l...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Yes, you should also be cautious that the unknown substance may be corrosive and could harm your skin. Generally, after an exposure incident involving blood or bodily fluids, it is recommended to test for HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. In your case, it technically d...[Read More] Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure in Hospitals: What to Know
Risk of Infection from Unknown Liquid Exposure in Southeast Asia
Contact with unknown liquid? I have a follow-up question regarding a visit to a hospital in Southeast Asia. Upon returning home, I noticed brownish-yellow stains on my hands (residue from an unknown liquid). I suspect it might be from contact with a chair that was used by a previ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, if it is Povidone-iodine, it usually does not have significant effects. As for the tissue fluid leakage, it is not considered an open wound, so overall, the risk of infection is low. Just closely monitor the condition of the wound. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Risk of Infection from Unknown Liquid Exposure in Southeast Asia
Potential Risks of Unknown Liquid Exposure: What You Need to Know
Contact with unknown liquid? During my visit to a local hospital in Southeast Asia, I was wearing a face mask and face shield due to the pandemic, so I didn't notice if I came into contact with anything. After returning home, I discovered brownish-yellow stains on my hands (...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, since it is difficult to determine what items you have come into contact with, it is challenging to assess the potential infectious diseases. However, generally speaking, if you do not have any obvious wounds or needle punctures, it is unlikely that you have been exposed t...[Read More] Potential Risks of Unknown Liquid Exposure: What You Need to Know
Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure After Vaccination in Vietnam
Infected with an unknown liquid in the hospital? During my visit to a local hospital in Vietnam for the COVID-19 vaccination, the vaccination process took about 3 hours. After returning home, I noticed an unknown yellow-brown residue on my palms, which resembles either iodine sol...
Dr. Lin Wufu Reply:
Hello: Basically, if there are no wounds on the palm, there is no chance of contracting bloodborne diseases through contact! Of course, it's a good idea to check if there are any effects on the local skin; if there are none, there's no need to worry![Read More] Concerns About Unknown Liquid Exposure After Vaccination in Vietnam
Understanding Unusual Lip Color Changes: Causes and Solutions
The color of the lips is different from others? Hello Doctor: My lips, as shown in the linked photo (https://img.onl/el2H6z), are usually a purplish-black color, similar to the character Fujiki from "Chibi Maruko-chan." I didn't have this discoloration during infan...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your photo, the color of your lips is only slightly darker but still within the normal range. Mitral valve prolapse and tricuspid regurgitation can indeed cause hypoxia, which may lead to darker lip color; however, if you do not experience shortness of breath, it ...[Read More] Understanding Unusual Lip Color Changes: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Your Immunology Blood Test Results: SSA and SSB Levels Explained
Examination Report The immune blood test report shows normal results, with SSA and SSB levels at 17.15. Are these considered positive? Are they normal?
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. The normal range values for SSA and SSB tests may vary slightly between hospitals, so it would be best to include the normal range from your test report for a more accurate assessment. Based on our hospital's reference normal range, your va...[Read More] Understanding Your Immunology Blood Test Results: SSA and SSB Levels Explained
Understanding Cutaneous Lupus: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
cutaneous lupus Hello Doctor, I am currently in Germany. I have a large area of redness and swelling near my knee on my thigh, resembling a bruise, and it is itchy. Additionally, I have experienced hair loss and itching on my scalp in the past, but I'm not sure if it's ...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your message. Cutaneous lupus may gradually develop into systemic manifestations, which is known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Therefore, it is essential to have regular check-ups to determine whether the symptoms remain confined to the skin or if th...[Read More] Understanding Cutaneous Lupus: Symptoms, Treatment, and When to Seek Help
Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Decreased red and white blood cell counts? Hello, I recently reviewed my previous health check-up reports from high school and college, which were three years apart. My red blood cell count decreased from 4.17 to 3.97, and my white blood cell count also decreased from 6.9 to 5.5....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your blood test report, both the changes in white blood cells and red blood cells are within normal ranges, so there is no need to worry about anemia. It is important to also consider the hemoglobin (Hb) levels to assess this condition. To improve your overall hea...[Read More] Understanding Decreased Red and White Blood Cell Counts: What You Need to Know
Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
My mother is 52 years old and has various health issues. Which specialty should she see? Symptoms: I often smell irritating odors (such as sewage, chili pepper, and a cool scent) and sometimes cough due to these irritating smells. Occasionally, it feels like I am being burned by ...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
If there are abnormal skin sensations, one can consult a neurologist. If there are abnormalities in the sense of smell, one can see an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Unexplained Symptoms: Which Specialist Should You See?
Can Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Trigger Folliculitis and Eczema?
Does Hashimoto's thyroiditis trigger folliculitis? Hello, doctor. I have a question regarding the topic. I have always had poor skin condition, which is dry and prone to itching. Before my thyroid issues were diagnosed, I was already prone to eczema, and I have been on thyro...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
Hyperthyroidism may be associated with dermatitis, and antithyroid medications themselves can also induce dermatitis.[Read More] Can Hashimoto's Thyroiditis Trigger Folliculitis and Eczema?
Understanding Moles: When to Worry About Skin Changes
Issues related to moles? Hello Dr. Hong, thank you very much for your continued patience in answering my questions. I have a mole on the side of my nose that has been with me since childhood. It is dark, slightly raised, and measures only 0.3 mm. Recently, I became aware of repor...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. If there has been no change, the likelihood of it becoming malignant is low. 2. Yes, it can change due to skin stretching. Based on your picture, although the edges are slightly irregular, the outline is clear, and it should just be an ordinary mole. I recommend that...[Read More] Understanding Moles: When to Worry About Skin Changes
Understanding Black Spots on Toenails: Causes and Concerns
Nail problems Hello Dr. Hong, I have noticed a small black spot on the side of my left big toe, close to the nail, but not on the nail bed. It is about 0.1 millimeters in size and is neither painful nor itchy. Could this be related to a skin condition? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on your description, it seems there may be a foreign body lodged in the nail fold or localized bleeding. If it gradually resolves on its own, there is no need for concern. However, if it continues to expand or if you experience pain, you should seek medical attention...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on Toenails: Causes and Concerns
Post-Vaccine Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots and Skin Changes
Post-vaccination issues? Hello doctor, I would like to ask about something. I just received my vaccine around 8 PM, and when I got home, I saw the information they sent back regarding possible symptoms, which mentioned blood clots. I happened to notice two dark spots on my calf, ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, based on the photos you provided, it appears to be a mole. The blood clots associated with the AZ vaccine refer to thrombosis within blood vessels, which commonly presents with symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and chest pain, rather than skin lesions like black spots...[Read More] Post-Vaccine Concerns: Understanding Blood Clots and Skin Changes
Understanding Fatty Liver Disease: Risks of Cell Death and Fibrosis Explained
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Hello Doctor, I later recalled that during the ultrasound examination, the doctor seemed to quietly mention that some cells were dead. Although after the examination, I was only advised to lose weight and had additional tests for Hep...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, ultrasound cannot determine whether cells are alive or dead. What your doctor observed is likely the phenomenon of fibrosis. Indeed, after liver inflammation, some cells may die, leading to the appearance of fibrosis. When fibrosis becomes severe, it progresses to cirrhosi...[Read More] Understanding Fatty Liver Disease: Risks of Cell Death and Fibrosis Explained
Understanding Persistent Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Oral issues Hello Doctor, I would like to consult you. I have had a sensation of a foreign body and severe pain in my throat for over three months (it was slightly milder three months ago). Currently, the symptoms are located at the left base of my tongue and deep in my throat, w...
Dr. Li Jian Reply:
For issues related to deep throat, abnormalities in the pharyngeal wall, or oral problems, it is important to follow up with an otolaryngology department at a medical center for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Throat Discomfort: Causes and Solutions
Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?
Can autonomic nervous system dysfunction cause candidal cheilitis? I have visited the dermatology clinic three times and am currently taking antibiotics and applying Clobetasol (a corticosteroid). The doctor believes it is caused by a bacterial infection, but it has not improved ...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, 1. Some ointments may appear white after being applied overnight, which does not necessarily indicate dead skin. 2. The use of antibiotics and corticosteroids can indeed lead to a decrease in local immunity, potentially resulting in a Candida albicans infection. However...[Read More] Can Autonomic Nervous System Disorders Cause Candidal Cheilitis?