Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Mass: Causes, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Right upper quadrant mass? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have noticed a lump in my right upper abdomen and have undergone X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, and some blood tests at the hospital. The report results indicated only a small amount of ascites and enlarged ovaries due to polyc...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Nana, 22 years old, female. 1. The CT images you provided are not abdominal; only the first image is an abdominal X-ray, while the second two are data, and the rest are primarily chest and breast images. Is it possible that the contrast agent was insufficiently injected or dilut...[Read More] Understanding Right Upper Abdomen Mass: Causes, Diagnosis, and Next Steps
Understanding Early Nasopharyngeal Cancer Treatment Options
Treatment-related Hello Doctor, my father had a blood test two weeks ago which showed abnormal EBV levels, and he underwent a CT scan at the hospital, followed by a biopsy (the doctor mentioned it was very small, so it was completely removed). The report confirmed a diagnosis of ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yang / 25 years old / Female Hello, 1. If the pathology results indicate nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells, is radiation therapy necessary? A: 1.1 Yes, 1.2 Surgery is not an option for nasopharyngeal tumors; radiation therapy is the only treatment available. 1.3 Generally, fo...[Read More] Understanding Early Nasopharyngeal Cancer Treatment Options
Understanding Neck Masses: Possible Causes and Concerns
Neck mass Two months ago, I discovered a neck lump on the right side of my thyroid cartilage that is hard and painless. I can also feel a similar lump on the left side in a symmetrical location, but the protrusion on the right side is much more pronounced and immovable. I consult...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: This question cannot be answered online; please visit an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) clinic in person. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Neck Masses: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding High Platelet Count: Should You See a Hematologist?
Elevated platelet count? Hello doctor, this is my recent blood test report: white blood cells 6.9, red blood cells 4.40, hemoglobin 10.5, hematocrit 34.2, mean corpuscular volume 77.7, mean corpuscular hemoglobin 23.9, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration 30.7, platelets 594...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Elevated platelet count is not related to urinary occult blood. 2. Yes, you need to follow up with a hematologist for further examination. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding High Platelet Count: Should You See a Hematologist?
Understanding Tumors Near the Anus: Signs, Risks, and Treatment Options
There is a tumor near the anus? Recently, I visited a cosmetic medical clinic to address a hemorrhoid issue. On the day of the surgery, the physician performed a digital examination and discovered a hard mass near the anus, which he believed was not hemorrhoids. Additionally, the...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Chen / 47 years old / Male (?) 1. Is the likelihood of colon cancer high? A: It is advisable to consult a physician for a biopsy to confirm whether it is cancer. 2. If it is indeed stage III colon cancer, is the survival rate high? A: The cure rate for stage 0 colon ca...[Read More] Understanding Tumors Near the Anus: Signs, Risks, and Treatment Options
Understanding Castleman Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Resources in Taiwan
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, I previously inquired about my blood test results indicating a high probability of lymphoma. The specimen report has now come back stating that it is Castleman disease. I understand that this is a rare condition, and although it is not cancer, it may...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ajie / 52 years old / Male 1. Is a biopsy result definitive? A: Of course, for a few diseases, most major hospital pathologists have a review system in place. The primary diagnosing physician will have other physicians in the department review the case before finalizing the re...[Read More] Understanding Castleman Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Resources in Taiwan
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 Persistent Eosinophilia: Causes and Health Risks
Eosinophilia Hello Doctor, I would like to ask if having an eosinophil count consistently between 800 and 1000 is indicative of any diseases or potential risks. For the past ten years, my count has always been in this range and never within the normal values. All other white bloo...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Elevated eosinophil counts can have many causes, such as allergies, medications, autoimmune diseases, or parasitic infections. However, since the duration has exceeded several years and is accompanied by abdominal pain and skin allergy symptoms, it is recommended to consult with ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Eosinophilia: Causes and Health Risks
Navigating Drug Resistance in Post-Surgery Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Colorectal cancer resistance to treatment After my family member's surgery for colorectal cancer, they had a KRAS mutation and underwent all lines of chemotherapy. The first-line treatment was the most effective, but the tumor only shrank initially and then showed no further...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. I am not your attending physician and cannot provide answers to your questions. 2. What is often not mentioned in online advertisements and promotional content is that it requires a significant amount of money, and it is completely outside of the National Health Insu...[Read More] Navigating Drug Resistance in Post-Surgery Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Axillary lymphadenopathy with pain and bleeding? Hello, Doctor: This week, I have been experiencing unexplained swelling and pain in my left armpit. Initially, there was no discoloration, but it was painful to the touch and felt soft. The pain has affected my sleep, as I wake up ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Wenwen / 21 years old / Male 1. This is my first time experiencing a large, red, swollen, and painful area. Should I see a doctor? A: 1.1 Redness, swelling, heat, and pain are symptoms of inflammation. A physician can evaluate your condition and determine whether antibiotics, p...[Read More] Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Managing Edema and Pain in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Pancreatic cancer metastasized to the liver, with bilateral lower extremity edema up to the knees? Last November, a family member (female) was diagnosed with stage II pancreatic cancer and underwent a Whipple resection. Post-surgery, she did not receive adjuvant chemotherapy. Fou...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yuyu / 28 years old / Female 1. What does the doctor think should be done in this situation? A: 1.1 The cancer itself may cause cachexia, leading to poor nutrient absorption, resulting in a severe weight loss down to 33 kg. Even with supplementation, it may not be sufficient. T...[Read More] Managing Edema and Pain in Advanced Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Risks
Abnormal blood test results? Two days ago, the clinic conducted a blood test report for a 40-year-old male. The results are as follows: WBC 5900 /µL, Neutrophil 44.7%, Lymphocyte 46.6% (elevated, normal range 18-45), Monocyte 6.5%, Eosinophil 1.3%, Basophil 0.9%, RBC 5.42 M/µL, H...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Light / 41 years old / Male. Could this be a precursor to blood cancer or lymphoma? A: 1. No 2. It could be caused by inflammation 3. Based on the blood test results, you currently do not have blood cancer, and lymphoma cannot be diagnosed solely through a blood test. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Risks
Understanding Pancreatic Cysts and Liver Hemangiomas: What You Need to Know
Pancreatic pseudocyst. Hepatic hemangioma? I recently had an abdominal ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that I have a small cyst on my pancreas and a hemangioma on my liver. They didn't specify the size or location, only stating that they are benign but recommended follo...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The small cysts in the pancreas and the hemangioma in the liver are both benign tumors. It is recommended to follow up every 3 to 6 months.[Read More] Understanding Pancreatic Cysts and Liver Hemangiomas: What You Need to Know
Understanding Blood Test Results: High Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Concerns
Blood test? The blood test report from the clinic two days ago shows the following results for a 40-year-old male: - WBC: 5900 /µL - Neutrophil: 44.7% - Lymphocyte: 46.6% (elevated, normal range: 18-45%) - Monocyte: 6.5% - Eosinophil: 1.3% - Basophil: 0.9% - RBC: 5.42 M/µL - He...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: This does not necessarily indicate lymphoma; I do not have any abnormal findings in this report. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: High Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Concerns
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis
CEA value Hello, my mother went to a nephrologist due to back pain, and an ultrasound revealed a shadow on her liver. Blood tests were arranged, and her CEA level was found to be 1119, which is extremely high. However, she does not have any other discomforting symptoms. My mother...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Psoriatic arthritis does not affect CEA levels; note: a CEA level of 1119 is significantly elevated, typically indicating that "potential" cancer is at an advanced stage or has metastasized to multiple sites. It is recommended to promptly consult an oncologist for furth...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Impact of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Early Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: Blood Sugar and Weight Loss
Signs of Pancreatic Cancer Doctor, I would like to ask if elevated blood sugar levels or weight loss are common issues before a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, or if these symptoms typically appear only in the later stages. Thank you.
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Xiao Wei / 30 years old / Male 1. I would like to ask if elevated blood sugar levels or weight loss are common issues before a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. A: Not necessarily. Some individuals may be asymptomatic and discover the diagnosis during routine check-ups, while oth...[Read More] Early Signs of Pancreatic Cancer: Blood Sugar and Weight Loss
Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Key Questions and Insights
Lymphatic issues Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about lymphatic issues: 1. Self-reported: 1. On May 25, 2022, I discovered a movable, non-painful, neither soft nor hard mass on the right side of my neck. 2. On May 25, 2022, I found a movable, non-painful, neither so...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Chris / 37 years old / Male 1. Is the size of the lymph nodes observed through ultrasound within the normal range? Can the measurements vary between different physicians? A: Generally, lymph nodes larger than 1 cm require further evaluation or biopsy, while those under 1 cm ca...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Key Questions and Insights
Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Could It Be Lymphoma?
Issues with cervical lymph nodes? Hello, Doctor. About three to four months ago, I discovered a large and painful lymph node on the inner side of my left jaw. It hurts a lot when I clench my jaw. Initially, I visited a clinic where the doctor said it was likely an enlarged lymph ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: It is impossible for a physician to determine whether someone has cancer without having met them in person. You need to seek medical attention in person, unless an otolaryngologist has performed a lymph node biopsy for you, which would allow them to answer that question. T...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Could It Be Lymphoma?
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes Beyond Lymphoma
A cluster of lymph nodes? On May 13, I received my third dose of the Moderna vaccine. On the morning of July 14, I suddenly experienced pain in my left arm, which by the evening had extended to my left chest near the armpit. Upon palpation, the lymph nodes in the armpit were swol...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Patient: Xiao Liu / 40 years old / Male Question: Aside from ruling out lymphoma, what other organs could have cancer cell metastasis? Answer: Lymphadenopathy may be caused by: 1. Cancer 2. Changes due to immune response from vaccination. 1. It should be noted that almost all...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Causes Beyond Lymphoma
Understanding Advanced Colon Cancer Treatment Options and Challenges
Colorectal cancer treatment As a child seeking advice for my father: My father, in his seventies, was diagnosed with colon cancer that had metastasized to the liver at the time of discovery. After surgically removing the tumor at the junction of the colon and rectum, he began che...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Some questions are not ones that I, as a general physician, can or should answer; you need to ask your father's primary physician. Therefore, I will only address some research-related inquiries: 2. All Ras gene mutations indicate that targeted therapies for a specific...[Read More] Understanding Advanced Colon Cancer Treatment Options and Challenges