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 Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Urinary protein and blood glucose? A few days ago, my father went to the clinic for a blood test, and the results are as follows: Urine protein 1+, fasting blood glucose 125 mg/dL (after fasting for just over 7 hours), total cholesterol 127 mg/dL, triglycerides 229 mg/dL, HDL 39....
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, In response to your father's concerns, here are my replies: First, regarding the protein in urine, the clinic report indicates a preliminary positive result. It is recommended to visit a larger hospital for a quantitative urine protein test, and possibly a 24-hour ...[Read More] Understanding Proteinuria and Elevated Blood Sugar: A Guide for Patients
Understanding the Link Between Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis and STDs
Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? In patients with Sjögren's syndrome, the occurrence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or gastrointestinal diseases can trigger ocular diseases and arthritis. Since this condition is autoimmune...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Here are my responses: 1. Reactive arthritis is related to individual susceptibility, making it easier to develop arthritis following an infection. Some cases of reactive arthritis are associated with sexually transmitted infections (triggered ...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis and STDs
Should I Start Medication for High Hepatitis B Viral Load Despite Normal Liver Function?
Liver function and liver ultrasound are normal, but the viral load exceeds 100 million copies. Should medication be taken? Hello Doctor: I am a carrier of hepatitis B, 42 years old, and I have regular follow-up examinations every three months for liver function, fetal protein, an...
Dr. Hong Yuanbin Reply:
Hello, in cases where liver function is normal, the treatment effect of hepatitis B medications is indeed not very effective. Therefore, it is still recommended in clinical practice to use them when liver function is abnormal, as the results are better. Regarding concerns about t...[Read More] Should I Start Medication for High Hepatitis B Viral Load Despite Normal Liver Function?
Understanding Thyroid Issues After Total Thyroidectomy: Free T4 Levels and Heart Health
Thyroid issues? Hello, doctor! I have undergone a total thyroidectomy due to papillary thyroid carcinoma. Currently, I am taking Eltroxin 0.1 mg, averaging 1.5 tablets per day. During my follow-up visits, my doctor has mentioned that my reports are normal. However, recently I hav...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Liang: 1. After undergoing a total thyroidectomy due to papillary thyroid carcinoma, secondary hypothyroidism often occurs, necessitating long-term thyroid hormone replacement therapy. Levothyroxine (T4) is typically used for this treatment; due to its long half-life, i...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Issues After Total Thyroidectomy: Free T4 Levels and Heart Health
Understanding the Risk of HIV After a Syphilis Diagnosis
Fear of AIDS I would like to ask if someone has recently been confirmed to have syphilis, but they mentioned that it has been 2 months since their syphilis diagnosis. Their test results showed no HIV reaction, only syphilis. I will be getting tested after 3 months. Is it possible...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether I could have contracted HIV after three months of testing, here are the key points: A. The HIV virus has three main transmission routes: 1. Sexual transmission: Engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse with an HIV-infected...[Read More] Understanding the Risk of HIV After a Syphilis Diagnosis
Understanding Abnormal Glomerular Filtration Rate: Causes and Recovery
Issues with Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) Values Hello Doctor: I am currently 30 years old. Yesterday, my blood test results showed an abnormal glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of 81 ml/min and a creatinine level of 1.15 mg/dL, but my urine protein test results were normal. I ...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello: The standard values for creatinine vary among different hospitals, typically ranging from 0.7 to 1.2. Since you have no urinary protein, further examination is recommended to determine the possibility of recovery. Regarding the medications you are taking, it is advisable t...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Glomerular Filtration Rate: Causes and Recovery
Understanding Persistent Edema: Seeking Answers Beyond Normal Test Results
Edema issues Hello Doctor: I previously inquired about edema and have since visited the Metabolism Department at Shuanghe Hospital. My hormone levels and thyroid function are normal. (I had my heart, liver, and kidney blood tests done at the Family Medicine Department last August...
Dr. Wu Jiyu Reply:
Hello! Based on the information you provided, I can sense your concerns about your current physical condition. However, there are many causes of edema, and clinical judgment is necessary; written communication may not accurately address your concerns. If you have previously consu...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Edema: Seeking Answers Beyond Normal Test Results
Understanding Elevated Blood Urea Nitrogen Levels: Causes and Implications
Elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels? Hello, doctor. I recently had a health check-up and found that my blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level is elevated at 24.9 mg/dL (normal range is 10-20 mg/dL), while my creatinine level is within the normal range. I am currently waiting for t...
Dr. Wu Hongjie Reply:
Hello: Based on your situation, the most likely cause of elevated BUN with normal creatinine is diarrhea and dehydration. It is recommended to wait for the diarrhea to improve and ensure adequate hydration before retesting. Other possible conditions include heart failure, effects...[Read More] Understanding Elevated Blood Urea Nitrogen Levels: Causes and Implications
Understanding HIV Testing: Is 7-8 Months Enough for Accurate Results?
HIV Issues Doctor, I engaged in high-risk behavior (unprotected oral sex) about 7 to 8 months ago and underwent anonymous testing for HIV and syphilis at a hospital. Both results were negative. Does this confirm that I am not infected? Is there a need for further testing? Are the...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the issue of HIV, here is the response: A: 1. After each instance of high-risk behavior or sharing needles or diluents for drug use, monitoring should be conducted for at least three to six months. 2. If the test results are negative after three to six mon...[Read More] Understanding HIV Testing: Is 7-8 Months Enough for Accurate Results?
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Insights on Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Future Risks
Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor: This is Lin, who asked you a question on March 28. The results of my blood test at the hospital in mid to late March showed that my FT4 level has risen from 3.07 to 6.57 within one to two months, and my TSH is <0.005. I have started medication. Ad...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. Hashimoto's disease is indeed an autoimmune disorder; its diagnosis requires the examination of specific antibodies or antigen responses, as well as imaging studies. Additionally, it is essential to differentiate it from other thyroid diseases. This means t...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Insights on Autoimmune Thyroiditis and Future Risks
Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Considerations for Patients
Hyperthyroidism Hello Doctor: Recently, during a routine health check at my company, I found that my Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) level was 0.01, Free Thyroxine (Free T4) was 3.07, fasting blood glucose was 100, heart rate was approximately 100 beats per minute, and my white...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Ms. Lin: 1. In our country, most testing laboratories are certified, and to maintain their reputation, the likelihood of significant errors in test results is low. Additionally, Free T4 and TSH levels do not fluctuate rapidly under normal physiological conditions. This mean...[Read More] Understanding Hyperthyroidism: Key Questions and Considerations for Patients
Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
A low lymphocyte count and a neutrophil count near the upper limit of normal could potentially indicate various conditions, including HIV. However, these findings alone are not definitive for an HIV diagnosis. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evalu...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Regarding <My Story>, the response is as follows: 1. I discovered painful urination and purulent discharge in mid-December last year and immediately sought medical attention at a clinic. However, there was no discharge during the examination. The doctor administered an in...[Read More] Low Lymphocyte Count: Could It Indicate HIV Infection?
Do I Need Further HIV Testing After Negative Elisa Results at 4 Weeks?
If the fourth-generation ELISA test results are negative at three, four, five, and six weeks after potential exposure, is further testing necessary? Hello, I had unprotected sex with a sex worker. Although I haven't experienced any physical discomfort afterward, I feel psych...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Many medical institutions currently offer free anonymous screening, which can be found on the CDC website, and you can consult and get tested nearby. 2. Since you have tested negative for six consecutive weeks, the likelihood of infection is low. However, to ensu...[Read More] Do I Need Further HIV Testing After Negative Elisa Results at 4 Weeks?
Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Blood sugar issues? Hello Doctor, I am 168 cm tall and weigh 57 kg. I had a health check-up at a major hospital in early October this year, where my fasting blood glucose level was 95 mg/dL. Since this value is close to the upper limit of the normal range, I was quite worried abo...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Mr. Alex: 1. A fasting blood glucose level of 95 mg/dL or 96 mg/dL shows no significant change clinically; in other words, it lacks significant meaning. Based solely on this value, no physician would suggest that it will soon exceed 100 mg/dL. Generally, blood glucose level...[Read More] Understanding Blood Sugar Levels: Are You at Risk for Diabetes?
Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis: Which Specialist to Consult?
Abnormal urinalysis? Due to insurance requirements, I was asked to undergo a general health check-up and was informed that my urine test results were abnormal. However, I was not provided with the report (the original report was sent directly to the insurance company). I would li...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: Regarding the question of whether to see a urologist or a nephrologist for a detailed examination to confirm any diseases: 1. In young women, abnormal urine findings are often due to urinary tract infections, which may show an increase in white blood cells, or bot...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Urinalysis: Which Specialist to Consult?
Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Follow-Up Care
Issues with the health examination report? Hello, I was vaccinated when I was young, but it seems that I did not produce antibodies, so I was diagnosed as a carrier of hepatitis B last year. I have been monitored since then, and there have been no significant issues. My doctor ad...
Dr. Xie Rongyuan Reply:
Hello: If you are already a carrier of hepatitis B, receiving the hepatitis B vaccine is no longer meaningful; regular follow-ups every six months are sufficient. Elevated eosinophil levels can have many causes, such as allergic diseases, parasitic infections, autoimmune diseases...[Read More] Understanding Your Hepatitis B Test Results and Follow-Up Care
Thyroid Tumors: Understanding Surgical Options and Lifelong Medication
Thyroid tumor Dear Director: At A Hospital, a biopsy was performed on both thyroid nodules, with the right side measuring 1.3 cm and the left side 0.85 cm. The physician informed me that after total thyroidectomy, lifelong medication would be necessary. At B Hospital, a biopsy sh...
Dr. Xiao Yongxun Reply:
Dear Miss Ping An, 1. Papillary carcinoma is the most common type of malignant thyroid tumor, predominantly occurring in young women. It typically presents with an irregular shape, and the tumor cells are arranged in a papillary pattern. Characteristic nuclear changes include gr...[Read More] Thyroid Tumors: Understanding Surgical Options and Lifelong Medication
Understanding Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Its Impact on Thyroid Enlargement
Regarding thyroid enlargement caused by Hashimoto's thyroiditis? Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis earlier this month after experiencing thyroid enlargement. I underwent an ultrasound and blood tests at the hospital. My outpatient physician inf...
Dr. Gao Jiankai Reply:
Hello, thank you for your question. I am not an endocrinologist, so I can only provide a general response. Ultimately, your question should be discussed with your physician during your clinic visit. From what I understand, Hashimoto's thyroiditis can lead to either hyperthyr...[Read More] Understanding Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Its Impact on Thyroid Enlargement
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Anemia Indicators Explained
Should I get a blood test? The school health check report shows the following results: WBC 6470, RBC 5.53, Hb 10.2, Hct 33.5, MCV 60.6, MCH 18.4, MCHC 30.4. The items marked in red indicate that you may have anemia, as your hemoglobin (Hb) and hematocrit (Hct) levels are below th...
Dr. Liao Zhongxin Reply:
Dear readers: 1. Regarding the health check report, only the red blood cell section is abnormal: Hb 10.2, MCV 60.6 (normal range 80-100). 2. A 19-year-old female may experience iron deficiency anemia due to menstrual blood loss if iron supplements are not adequately provided t...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Anemia Indicators Explained