Understanding Rising CEA Levels: Implications for Cancer Screening
The CEA levels in the health checkup have been increasing year by year? Doctor: Hello. I am 52 years old and underwent surgery for a benign meningioma 25 years ago. My father passed away from colorectal cancer a few years ago, and my mother had endometrial cancer but is doing wel...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Wang An: 1. The normal reference ranges may vary each year due to differences in testing equipment or reagents. 2. A CEA level below 4 is generally considered normal. However, in the presence of cancer, CEA levels may not necessarily rise. Given your family history of colorec...[Read More] Understanding Rising CEA Levels: Implications for Cancer Screening
Seeking Help for My Mother's Ongoing Pain After Cancer Treatment
Can you please provide the content you would like me to translate? Your question: Hello, my mother is a breast cancer patient. In 2000, she had her right lymph nodes removed, and in 2002, there was a recurrence, leading to the removal of her right breast. Recently, she has been e...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Your mother's current PET scan shows no issues, indicating that there is no spread of cancer. Although she is in pain, there is no immediate risk to her life, so she may not be in danger; however, her quality of life is diminished. 2. It is recommended to consult a...[Read More] Seeking Help for My Mother's Ongoing Pain After Cancer Treatment
Unexplained Pain in Cancer Patients: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Unexplained pain? Hello: My mother is a breast cancer patient. In 2000, she underwent a right lymphadenectomy, and in 2002, she had a recurrence that led to a right mastectomy. Recently, she has been experiencing frequent pain near her stomach. Various tests have been conducted, ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Have you had a bone scan done? 2. A PET scan may also be considered. 3. If the PET scan does not reveal any issues, it is possible to experience pain in various areas without a clear cause. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Sih-Jung, Oncology.[Read More] Unexplained Pain in Cancer Patients: Seeking Answers and Solutions
Understanding PET Scans: A Guide for Cancer Patients and Families
What is PET (Positron Emission Tomography) imaging? Your question: Hello, my mother is a breast cancer patient. In 2000, she had her right lymph nodes removed, and in 2002, she had a recurrence and underwent a right mastectomy. Recently, she has been experiencing frequent pain ne...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, positron emission tomography (PET) is one of the advanced medical technologies. Its functions include the detection of cancer, assessment of cardiac blood flow and myocardial viability, and diagnosis of brain lesions. You should consult your mother's attending physici...[Read More] Understanding PET Scans: A Guide for Cancer Patients and Families
Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer Metastasis to the Lungs: What to Expect
Urgent question... Stage II breast cancer with newly discovered lung metastasis..? Hello, I would like to ask: My classmate was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer two years ago. She underwent radiation therapy and chemotherapy, but recently it was discovered that the cancer ha...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Different physicians may have varying approaches to disease management. 2. The administration of radiation therapy is generally similar and can reduce the risk of chest recurrence. 3. Different chemotherapy agents may have varying efficacy, but even with the strongest m...[Read More] Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer Metastasis to the Lungs: What to Expect
Understanding Breast Tissue Changes: What to Know About Lumps and Growths
Areola There is a circular area around the left nipple that is not very hard but is quite large, approximately 4 centimeters in diameter, and it can be moved under the armpit. I haven't felt any hard lumps when I palpate the area. If I press on it continuously, it becomes pa...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Dear Miss, Based on your description, it does not seem to be breast cancer. However, since there is a hard lump, it is important to pay close attention to it. I would recommend that you take the time to have it checked by a general surgeon or a breast surgeon for a more thoroug...[Read More] Understanding Breast Tissue Changes: What to Know About Lumps and Growths
Understanding Hard Lumps in the Armpit: Potential Causes and Concerns
There is a hard lump in the armpit? I recently discovered a small hard lump under my right armpit, measuring less than 0.5 centimeters. Since I previously had a benign phyllodes tumor removed from my left breast, I would like to know if this could possibly be lymphatic metastasis...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: It is possible that this is lymphatic metastasis, with the most common primary site being right-sided breast cancer. You should seek medical attention as soon as possible; it could be benign, but regardless, it is essential to visit a hospital for evaluation. This message ...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in the Armpit: Potential Causes and Concerns
Understanding Breast Lumps: What Teens Should Know About Pain and Care
I have a hard lump on my chest? I would like to ask! Why do I have a hard lump in my chest that hurts? I'm very anxious; I'm only 16 years old! Could it be breast cancer? I don't know which specialist to see. Can you tell me which department I should visit?
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: Please schedule an appointment with the breast surgery clinic as soon as possible for evaluation by a specialist. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: What Teens Should Know About Pain and Care
Understanding Chemotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer: Options and Insights
Chemotherapy Hello Dr. Chen, I believe this will be the last time I consult you. My mother has been diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer, and the surgeon has stated that surgery is no longer an option. She has been referred to the oncology department. The oncologist has prescr...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The effectiveness of chemotherapy varies depending on one's perspective. Chemotherapy can slow the rate of tumor spread, thereby reducing the suffering caused by metastasis, so it is beneficial. However, since patients will ultimately pass away, some may argue it...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy for Advanced Breast Cancer: Options and Insights
Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Breast lump Hello Doctor, I had an ultrasound examination at the oncology department, and the doctor said I have a tumor that is about 2 centimeters. I have a movable hard lump in my breast that does not hurt unless I gently squeeze it, which causes some pain. Does this definitel...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Ms. Nicole: The only course of action for now is to wait for the biopsy results to determine whether it is benign or malignant. Having children earlier and having more children should reduce the risk of breast cancer. Wishing you all the best.[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Understanding Stage 0 Breast Cancer: Surgery and Recovery Rates
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS) Hello Doctor: A relative has been diagnosed with stage 0 breast cancer, but the pathologist mentioned that more precise tests can only be done after surgery (mastectomy), so the symptoms are not yet fully confirmed. I am a bit worried and would lik...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The biopsy confirmed stage 0 breast cancer, and the exact stage can only be determined after surgery. 2. The cure rate is related to the stage; some recent studies show that for stages 1-2, the 10-year survival rate can reach 70%-85%, while for stages 3-4, it is approxi...[Read More] Understanding Stage 0 Breast Cancer: Surgery and Recovery Rates
Understanding Lumps Under the Arm: When to Seek Medical Advice
extremely fearful I have a large lump in my armpit that feels hard and is painful to touch. Recently, it seems to have developed some pus around it, but I'm afraid to squeeze it. What could it be? Is it a lymph node tumor? Should I avoid touching it? Can I drain the pus? How...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. It may be folliculitis or suppurative lymphatic metastasis from breast cancer. 2. Do not attempt to touch or squeeze it yourself. 3. Please seek assistance from a general surgery outpatient clinic promptly. After a definitive diagnosis and treatment, the physician will ...[Read More] Understanding Lumps Under the Arm: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Cancer Risk and Treatment Progress in Family History
About cancer? My grandmother died of lung cancer, my maternal grandmother died of colon cancer, and my father died of liver cancer. Currently, my mother is undergoing chemotherapy for stage IV breast cancer. Doctor, does this increase my likelihood of developing cancer? Another q...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The current probability of developing cancer is about 1 in 3.5 to 4 people, but others may also succumb to heart disease, diabetes, etc., so try to stay positive! 2. For changes in cancer markers, it is advisable to consult the physician currently treating her. Sincerel...[Read More] Understanding Cancer Risk and Treatment Progress in Family History
Understanding Hard Lumps on Nipples: What Boys Should Know
There is a lump in the nipple? I am a 9th-grade male, and I recently discovered a 0.3 cm hard lump near my nipple. I'm not sure if it could be male breast cancer, and I don't know what to do now...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Dear Ben, A 9th-grade boy has recently discovered a 0.3 cm hard lump in the area of his nipple. This is likely a phenomenon related to the developmental process, and there is no need for excessive concern, as male breast cancer typically occurs in older patients. If necessary, ...[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps on Nipples: What Boys Should Know
Is It a Tumor? Understanding Lumps and Breast Pain Concerns
Is it a tumor? Doctor: I have a small lump on my thigh (located in the indentation between my thigh and waist). It's about the size of a green bean! It hurts when I press on it. Could this be a tumor? Which department should I visit for an examination at the hospital? I'...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
A small lump about the size of a mung bean is generally not a major concern. If it continues to grow, consider consulting a hematologist at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. Regarding the inverted nipple, given your age, it does not appear to be a sign of breast cancer. If y...[Read More] Is It a Tumor? Understanding Lumps and Breast Pain Concerns
Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Your Health
Lump In the first year of junior high school, I discovered a small hard lump in my chest. At first, I thought it was a normal part of development, so I ignored it. Later, the lump seemed to grow larger. By the time I was in the third year of junior high, I became aware that I mig...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The breast lump has been present since the first year of junior high school and has not changed, so it is likely not cancer and is probably a benign tumor. 2. However, benign tumors can potentially become malignant in the future. 3. It is recommended to be brave and def...[Read More] Understanding Breast Lumps: What You Need to Know About Your Health
Understanding Lymph Node Cancer: Painful Lumps in Neck and Armpit
Lymphoma Hello: If there are painful small lumps appearing in the neck and armpit, is it possible that they are cancer?
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. If there is a lump in the neck, you can consult an otolaryngologist. If there is a lump in the armpit suspected to be breast cancer, you should see a surgeon. 2. A physician must evaluate the situation first, and if necessary, arrange for a biopsy to confirm whether it ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Cancer: Painful Lumps in Neck and Armpit
Understanding Axillary Lymph Nodes: Causes, Impact, and Care Tips
Axillary lymph nodes Hello, Dr. Fan: Recently, I had a check-up at the National Defense Medical Center and was found to have a one-centimeter lymph node in my armpit. The doctor could not palpate it and advised me to return for a follow-up in three months. Could you please explai...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Ms. Yang: Since the doctor couldn't palpate it, how did they know there is a one-centimeter lymph node in the axilla? The causes of lymphadenopathy are primarily infection and tumors. If the lymph node continues to enlarge and is painless, caution is warranted! It may be adv...[Read More] Understanding Axillary Lymph Nodes: Causes, Impact, and Care Tips
Understanding Life Expectancy with Untreated Stage 3 Breast Cancer
If I really have breast cancer? Hello Doctor: After the physician's diagnosis, I may have stage III breast cancer (biopsy not yet performed). If I do have it and do not plan to undergo treatment, how long might I still live? Thank you!
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Dear Sammi: Stage III breast cancer can still be treated or have a significant impact on extending life, and there are many things you can still do. Don't lose hope. Keep fighting![Read More] Understanding Life Expectancy with Untreated Stage 3 Breast Cancer
Understanding Breast Changes: Concerns About Size, Veins, and Lumps
Breast cancer Hello, I would like to ask some questions regarding breast cancer. I have stretch marks on my breasts, and one side is larger than the other. In high school, I was a D cup, and after attending a junior college, my breasts became an E cup. It feels like they are gett...
Dr. Lin Zongzhe Reply:
Hello: It is normal to see blood vessels, and the small lump on the breast is more likely to be a benign tumor. It is recommended to consult a physician for a physical examination. Sincerely, Dr. Lin Tsung-Che, Department of Oncology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welf...[Read More] Understanding Breast Changes: Concerns About Size, Veins, and Lumps