Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Cervical lymph nodes Hello Doctor, I am currently studying in the UK. About three months ago, I noticed a movable lymph node about 1 cm in size on the right side of my neck. Over time, it has increased in size, reaching approximately 2.8 cm by the end of May. However, a few days ...
Dr. Yan Jingheng Reply:
Enlarged lymph nodes in the neck are not necessarily indicative of lymphoma; a pathological biopsy is required for confirmation. They could also be benign tumors, and lymphoma may be associated with head and neck cancers. Additionally, since your lymph nodes have been enlarged fo...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Please ask your questions regarding CBC blood test data? Hello, Doctor! I have had a unique constitution since childhood, unable to consume supplements, which usually leads to random growths. I have a surgical history of six procedures: 1. Facial lipoma 2. Adenotonsillar hypertro...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
From the initial examination values, it indeed appears to be iron deficiency anemia; however, if there are concerns, it is advisable to consult a hematologist or a specialist in immunology and rheumatology. PS: 1. Does short sleep duration and staying up late affect CBC results...[Read More] Understanding CBC Results and Anemia Concerns in Cancer Patients
Understanding Suspected Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Suspected Mediterranean anemia (Thalassemia) Hello Doctor: Since I was young, my father has mentioned that he was told by a physician that he might have Mediterranean anemia. My blood reports have consistently shown abnormal results. During high school, if I just woke up, I would...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Mediterranean anemia can only be diagnosed through hemoglobin electrophoresis (covered by health insurance) or genetic testing (out-of-pocket). The hemoglobin level, regardless of its value, cannot confirm the diagnosis; it can only raise suspicion. 2. The HBA2 level ca...[Read More] Understanding Suspected Mediterranean Anemia: Symptoms and Diagnosis
Addressing Concerns in Multiple Myeloma Treatment: A Patient's Journey
Questions Regarding Treatment of Multiple Myeloma Hello Dr. Hu, My mother is 67 years old and has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma through spinal cord testing, with a high IgD level (6000-7000). Other body metrics are mostly normal, with the only notable abnormality being a...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
If it is caused by Sider, typically after 1-2 months of adapting to the medication treatment, symptoms will gradually improve. If it does not affect daily life, it is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Addressing Concerns in Multiple Myeloma Treatment: A Patient's Journey
Managing Iron Deficiency Anemia: Do You Still Need Iron Supplements?
Iron supplementation for the treatment of anemia? In October, I sought treatment at the hospital due to severe hair loss. After a blood test, the doctor diagnosed me with iron deficiency anemia and prescribed iron supplements (Ferrous sulfate). After three months of treatment, my...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Are the values you mentioned for Ferritin, or are they for free iron? I'm not sure, so I cannot answer; please consult the prescribing physician. 2. Increase your intake of red meats (such as beef and lamb, which are high in iron). In contrast, white meats like chi...[Read More] Managing Iron Deficiency Anemia: Do You Still Need Iron Supplements?
Painful Lumps Underarm: When to Seek Medical Attention?
There are several lumps in the armpit that are painful when pressed? Hello Doctor, In early December last year, I discovered three small lumps under my right armpit. They appeared normal, were immobile, not itchy, but painful when pressed, with the pain intensifying the more I ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be folliculitis or lymphadenopathy caused by stress and immune dysregulation. It is recommended to drink plenty of water and adjust your schedule. If there is no improvement after the exam and the condition seems to be worsening, it is advisable to see a dermatologist...[Read More] Painful Lumps Underarm: When to Seek Medical Attention?
Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Insights for Tumor Patients
Blood test report Hello Dr. Chen, Recheck results: RBC: 5.26, HB: 12.1, HCT: 40.3, RDW: 20.7, MCV: 76.6, MCH: 25.5, MCHC: 31.5, MPV: 7.3, Fe: 48, UIBC: 392, Monocytes: 12.8. The physician at the Chinese medicine clinic stated that there is no anemia, but the report shows seve...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: I agree! You do not have anemia! Anemia is determined solely by the hemoglobin (Hb) level, and yours is 12.1, which is normal. The other abnormal values are not helpful in diagnosing your condition! They are unrelated to your dizziness and hair loss. You should consult ano...[Read More] Understanding Your Blood Test Results: Insights for Tumor Patients
Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports
Anemia in Health Check Report Your health check report shows that your hemoglobin (Hb) is 11.2 g/dL, hematocrit (Ht) is 35.4%, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is 62 mg/dL, all of which are below the standard values. You should pay attention to the following: 1. **A...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: You may not be able to notice anything. Please visit a hospital to see a hematologist and an endocrinologist, or you can also go to a family medicine physician. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Low Hemoglobin and Cholesterol Levels in Health Reports
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Anemia and Its Symptoms
Abnormal test results related to red blood cells in a blood test report? Hello Dr. Chen, I am (158.5 cm / 54 kg) and have been referred to a medical center for a hysteroscopy due to uterine fibroids. The gynecologist also arranged for a blood test, and the results are as follows:...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your hemoglobin level is too low, at only 4.8, which poses a life-threatening risk. Please go to the emergency department of a large hospital as soon as possible to receive a blood transfusion; it's too late for iron supplements. After the transfusion, follow up with ...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Anemia and Its Symptoms
Does Blood Transfusion Cause PSA Levels to Rise in Prostate Cancer?
The issue of elevated PSA levels after blood transfusion? Hello, due to abnormal hematopoietic function caused by stage IV prostate cancer, the patient has been experiencing anemia and received blood transfusions for three consecutive days. After three days, a blood test revealed...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Huang, 70 years old, male. 1. Will this condition continue indefinitely? A: The likelihood of this condition worsening is higher, as the PSA has nearly doubled. The reason is that the long-term hormone therapy has just become ineffective; it is less likely to be caused by a bl...[Read More] Does Blood Transfusion Cause PSA Levels to Rise in Prostate Cancer?
Understanding PET Scan Results for Lung Cancer: A Guide for Patients
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Hello, Director. Please help me review my mother's PET scan report; I don't understand it. Thank you. **PET Scan Report:** **Indication:** The 49-year-old woman is diagnosed with right middle lung cancer, stage IA1 (pT1aNx), status p...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Home / 48 years old / Female 0: It should be based on the explanation from her attending physician. 1. There were mildly increased FDG uptake in the right middle lung (SUVmax: 1.1) and right chest wall (SUVmax: ~1.7), probably post-operative changes. There is a post-operative rea...[Read More] Understanding PET Scan Results for Lung Cancer: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia and Thalassemia Risks
Blood test report Hello, doctor. I am a 35-year-old male and would like to ask two questions regarding my blood tests from health check-ups. 1. I have concerns related to anemia. Here are my blood test results: - May 2019: RBC 7.22, Hb 16.1, Hct 48.9, MCV 67.7, MCH 22.3, MCHC...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Your hemoglobin level is quite high (Hb 15-16), which is higher than many normal individuals (normal male Hb 13). You do not have any issues with anemia, so it is meaningless to focus on small details such as RBC count, MCV (mean corpuscular volume), etc. Even if you ...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Analyzing Anemia and Thalassemia Risks
Unexplained Fever After COVID Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Unexplained fever sensation? Hello, since recovering from COVID-19, I started experiencing tightness in my heart, chest discomfort, and a feeling of something stuck in my throat about three to four months later, specifically in the first week after my menstrual period in October....
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Some individuals may experience a feeling of fever or elevated temperature while taking iron supplements; it is recommended to increase fluid intake.[Read More] Unexplained Fever After COVID Recovery: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Understanding Blood Test Results: Evaluating Lymphadenopathy and Anemia Risks
Blood Test Report Recently, I have noticed lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly in my neck, armpits, and groin (on both sides), particularly in the armpit, which is about the size of a chicken egg. It is painless, movable, and has a smooth surface, not very hard but somewhat elastic....
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ajie / 52 years old / Male 1. My hematologist directly recommended a biopsy. A: His suggestion is quite reasonable. 2. This back-and-forth has taken almost a month; why not start medication to address the inflammation first? Perhaps the lymphadenopathy would resolve. A: Diagn...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Evaluating Lymphadenopathy and Anemia Risks
Understanding Low Iron Levels: Is Further Testing Necessary?
I would like to inquire about this value? I would like to ask, after taking iron supplements for three months at a dosage of two pills a day, my hemoglobin level has returned to 13.5, but my iron content is 21 and my Fe/TIBC is only 5. (I would like to ask the doctor what this Fe...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Iron deficiency anemia requires at least six months of iron supplementation for the body's iron stores to return to normal. However, women of childbearing age may need a longer supplementation period due to menstrual blood loss, which can vary in volume and lead to different...[Read More] Understanding Low Iron Levels: Is Further Testing Necessary?
Do I Need to See a Hematologist After Anemia Diagnosis?
Do I need to see a hematologist after receiving my blood test results? Hello Dr. Chen, I recently received my gastrointestinal blood test results. The outpatient physician informed me that I have anemia and recommended that I see a hematologist at a major hospital. However, due t...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Based on your report, microcytic anemia is confirmed, but the cause is unknown (as other tests have not been performed). It is recommended to see a hematologist for a complete evaluation and medication. Thank you.[Read More] Do I Need to See a Hematologist After Anemia Diagnosis?
What to Know About Abnormal Blood Test Results in Oncology
What should be noted regarding the red text in blood test results? I would like to ask the doctor about the red-highlighted areas (the parts in parentheses) what I should pay attention to? Is further examination necessary? (MCHC 27.5) (MCV 71.4) MPV 9.4 Platelet 300 RBC 4.33 (RDW...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: (Hb 8.5) (MCV 71.4) indicates anemia. Please see a physician for medication. Thank you.[Read More] What to Know About Abnormal Blood Test Results in Oncology
Managing Mediterranean Anemia: Treatment, Supplements, and Monitoring
Management and Follow-up of Thalassemia I have thalassemia, and my hemoglobin levels are around 8-9 g/dL, with no specific symptoms on a daily basis. When I visited the doctor, in addition to blood tests, I was prescribed folic acid to take 5 mg daily. 1. I checked the recommen...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. You do not need to take folic acid; it is unnecessary and not beneficial. 2. Currently, there is no need to take iron chelators. For patients with similar conditions, I only prescribe iron chelators covered by insurance if their ferritin levels exceed 2000. 3. In princi...[Read More] Managing Mediterranean Anemia: Treatment, Supplements, and Monitoring
Can Chemotherapy Be Administered with High White Blood Cell Count?
Elevated white blood cell count? The white blood cell count has risen to 19,500 with neutrophils at 86%. Is chemotherapy possible or not? There is thrombocytopenia and anemia. How can a liver abscess be diagnosed? Thank you, doctor.
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. I am not your chemotherapy physician, so I cannot answer this question. 2. Thrombocytopenic anemia is not related to the diagnosis of a liver abscess. Thank you.[Read More] Can Chemotherapy Be Administered with High White Blood Cell Count?
Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions and Next Steps
Questions about Mediterranean anemia? Hello, doctor. I have had anemia issues since childhood and have been informed by various laboratory technicians that I may have thalassemia. Below are the results from my last two tests. I am unsure if these results can help in making a diag...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
This data may indicate thalassemia and iron deficiency anemia, and further testing is needed for differential diagnosis. However, if there is a family history of thalassemia, the likelihood of hereditary thalassemia is higher. If thalassemia is confirmed, oral folic acid can be a...[Read More] Understanding Mediterranean Anemia: Key Questions and Next Steps