Understanding the Continuous Decline in White Blood Cell Count: A Concern
The white blood cell count has been continuously decreasing over the past four years? Hello Dr. Hu, in recent years, my white blood cell count has been continuously decreasing: around 3300 in 2020, about 2800 in 2023, and approximately 1900 in 2024. My platelet count is also low,...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
If there have been no signs of infection (such as a cold, etc.) in the recent three months, or if you have taken certain oral medications (such as antibiotics, anti-inflammatory pain relievers, etc.), and are experiencing fatigue and oral ulcers, it is recommended to consult a rh...[Read More] Understanding the Continuous Decline in White Blood Cell Count: A Concern
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
Life After Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Navigating Recovery and Daily Activities
Life During Recovery from Myeloid Leukemia Hello Dr. Hu, I was diagnosed with M3 type acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) in January. After six months of treatment (induction + consolidation), my genetic testing is now negative, and my white blood cell count (5000) and platelet co...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
After the treatment, you can resume your normal lifestyle and diet.[Read More] Life After Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Navigating Recovery and Daily Activities
Elevated AFP Levels with Normal Ultrasound: What Could It Mean?
Elevated AFP levels persist, and abdominal ultrasound shows no abnormalities? On May 25, I underwent a comprehensive health check-up. On June 21, I received the report indicating that my Alpha-Fetoprotein (AFP) level, which is a marker for liver cancer, was elevated at 19.3. On J...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Please cherish our online medical resources. When asking the same question, please specify only one physician/nutritionist. Faye / 30 years old / Female Hello. I apologize for the delayed response as I was abroad. 1. I would like to ask if there are any other benign conditio...[Read More] Elevated AFP Levels with Normal Ultrasound: What Could It Mean?
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Abnormal elevation of AFP levels? Hello, I underwent a physical examination on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. Other liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, were all normal. A...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Faye / 30 years old / Female Hello, 1. Please refer to the first response. 2. If the CT scan still shows no abnormalities, what additional tests (which can be self-paid) are recommended to identify the cause? A: A whole-body positron emission tomography (PET) scan can be cons...[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Understanding the Progression of Lung Cancer Tumor Spread: Key Insights
How does the progression of lung cancer tumor metastasis occur? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about the progression of lung cancer tumors. Do they typically spread first through the lymphatic system in the lungs and then progress to the trachea, major blood vessels, heart, br...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hua Hua / 66 years old / Female Hello, 1. Can you explain how lung cancer tumors spread? Do they typically start by spreading to the lymph nodes in the lungs and then progress to the trachea, major blood vessels, heart, brain, and bones? A: 1.1 This question is somewhat like fo...[Read More] Understanding the Progression of Lung Cancer Tumor Spread: Key Insights
Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Abnormal elevation of AFP (Alpha-fetoprotein) levels? Hello, I underwent a health check on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. All related liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: If a CT scan does not reveal any abnormalities in the liver, an MRI scan is usually arranged for further evaluation. We will wait for the results of the examination. If any abnormalities are found, it will be up to the physician to determine the next steps. I cannot answer...[Read More] Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps
Can Surgery for Meniscus Tear Spread Cancer Cells in Lymphoma Patients?
Will cancer cells spread during general surgery for conditions other than cancer? Hello Doctor, my mother was recently diagnosed with a meniscus tear in her knee, and now she walks slowly, which affects her daily life. She needs surgery to walk, but at the same time, she has also...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Sun / 29 years old / Female Hello, 1. May I ask if these two surgeries can be performed simultaneously? A: Orthopedic surgery is an operation, while lymphoma is treated with chemotherapy, which does not require surgery. 2. Is it possible to manage both treatment regimens ...[Read More] Can Surgery for Meniscus Tear Spread Cancer Cells in Lymphoma Patients?
Can Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recur? Understanding Risks and Diagnosis
Is it possible for nasopharyngeal carcinoma to recur? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask about my family member. Two and a half years ago, they were diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma T1N1 and underwent 33 sessions of proton therapy and 5 cycles of chemotherapy. Subsequent ex...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Li / 40 years old / Female Hello~~ 1. I would like to ask the doctor~~ Is the diagnosis primarily based on the biopsy report? A: Yes, the diagnosis is primarily based on the biopsy report. However, if there are suspicions and the biopsy is inconclusive, we may repeat the...[Read More] Can Nasopharyngeal Cancer Recur? Understanding Risks and Diagnosis
Post-Treatment Concerns for HPV-Related Tongue Cancer
Post-treatment issues of HPV-related tongue cancer? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask a few questions: 1. After undergoing chemoradiation for stage 1 HPV-related tongue cancer, it has been 7 months and my sense of taste has not returned. What should I do? The limited mouth ope...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Lily / 70 years old / Female 1. After 7 months of chemoradiation for stage 1 HPV-related tongue cancer, my sense of taste has not returned. What should I do? The limited mouth opening may be due to fibrosis; how can I rehabilitate it? A: To stimulate your sense of taste, try e...[Read More] Post-Treatment Concerns for HPV-Related Tongue Cancer
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
Is a High EBNA IgG Level Dangerous and Equivalent to EBV DNA?
Are the EBNA IgG levels and EBV DNA levels the same thing? I had a blood test at National Taiwan University for EBNA IgG, and my result is 134.07, which is positive. Is this significantly above the standard? Is it very dangerous? Is this the same as the EBV DNA value you mentione...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes, it is positive, significantly higher than the standard range of 9-11. The value alone cannot determine the presence of cancer; the pathology report is the basis for a definitive diagnosis. 2. IgG is not DNA; I personally do not test for IgG. I only test for DNA, bu...[Read More] Is a High EBNA IgG Level Dangerous and Equivalent to EBV DNA?
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
Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: When to Consult a Hematologist
The white blood cell count is slightly below the normal range? I have been regularly seeing a cardiologist and getting blood tests every three months (with white blood cell counts checked approximately every six months). During my recent follow-up appointment at the end of April,...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
CY / 52 years old / Female Q: What would be the most suitable course of action for my condition? A: 1. Continuous monitoring 2. There are some dietary supplements for increasing white blood cell count available online 3. Consult with a hematologist, Dr. Chen Sih-Jung at Taoyu...[Read More] Understanding Low White Blood Cell Count: When to Consult a Hematologist
Understanding Your EBV Test Results: Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns
Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond, which has helped ease my anxiety and allowed me to sleep better? Hello Doctor, I am very anxious and would like to ask a few questions. I have not had any cough, but I constantly feel like I have phlegm. I visited several clinics...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Yes, it is very dangerous. The normal EBV DNA levels in healthy individuals are close to zero, which likely indicates a possibility of nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Please wait for the biopsy pathology results; until the pathology report is available, everything remains highly...[Read More] Understanding Your EBV Test Results: Managing Anxiety and Health Concerns
Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Occasional dizziness and headaches; elevated vitamin B12 levels? Hello, my recent blood test results are as follows: Complete Blood Count I (eight items) RBC 4.64, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) PLATELET 496, Complete Blood Count I (eight items) MPV 8.9, Complete Blood Coun...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. If platelet count is elevated (>400K), it is recommended to follow up in 3-6 months. If it remains elevated (>400K), it is advisable to consult a hematologist. 2. Elevated vitamin B12 levels do not cause headaches or dizziness. 3. If kidney function is impaired (elevat...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of High Vitamin B12 on Dizziness and Headaches
Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Elevated CEA levels? Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire: "A family member had a CEA level of 3.6 on December 11, 2023, at the time of diagnosis with stage III breast cancer. Surgery was performed on January 3, 2024, but during the follow-up appointment three months later ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The normal range for CEA is 0-5. The values are interpreted by the machine. If the result is within the normal range (<5) and there are no significant abnormalities in imaging, it is recommended to simply monitor the situation.[Read More] Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment
Understanding the Differences Between Common Bruises and Leukemia Symptoms
About bruises? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if there is a significant difference between a regular bruise and a bruise caused by leukemia. I just noticed a bruise about 1-2 centimeters on both my hand and foot, and there are no other bruises. I'm not sure if it's ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. The appearance of both is the same, with no differences. 2. There are no specific concerns to pay attention to; if discomfort occurs, seek medical attention. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding the Differences Between Common Bruises and Leukemia Symptoms
Can You Get Cancer from Contact with Breast Cancer Discharge?
If the nose accidentally comes into contact with breast cancer secretions, is there a risk of infection? Hello doctor: If my nose accidentally comes into contact with the secretions (such as blood or other fluids) from a breast cancer patient (a relative), is there a risk of bein...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
No, cancer is not contagious, so there is no need to panic excessively.[Read More] Can You Get Cancer from Contact with Breast Cancer Discharge?
Understanding M3 Leukemia Treatment: Is Consolidation Therapy Necessary?
Treatment of M3 type leukemia? Hello Dr. Hu, I am currently a patient with M3 type leukemia. My treatment phase involves daily oral all-trans retinoic acid and two phases of arsenic trioxide injections (7 days each phase for a total of 14 days). After about a month of monitoring...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Patients with M3-type leukemia, in addition to the initial induction therapy and subsequent consolidation therapy, often undergo maintenance therapy for 1-2 years. Although M3-type leukemia has a relatively favorable prognosis among acute leukemias, approximately 5% of patients m...[Read More] Understanding M3 Leukemia Treatment: Is Consolidation Therapy Necessary?