Understanding Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: A Patient's Journey
Chemotherapy for head and neck cancer Hello Dr. Chen, my sister was diagnosed with stage II squamous cell carcinoma of the left buccal mucosa two years ago without lymphatic metastasis. The doctor at that time performed a tumor resection without lymphadenectomy and did not recomm...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. I cannot answer this question; you would need to ask her attending physician for that information. 2. I also cannot answer this question because I do not have specific information about the medication name and dosage, and I am unaware of the patient's physical cond...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer: A Patient's Journey
Understanding HPV Persistence and Cancer Risks After Treatment
The recurrence rate of HPV (Human Papillomavirus)? Hello, I am a patient with HPV type 16 throat cancer who has completed chemoradiation. My doctor has confirmed that the tumor is no longer visible. I would like to ask the following questions: 1. Will the HPV in my body still be...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. P16 is just one type of protein expression associated with HPV infection, and its significance in head and neck cancer is that patients who are P16 positive tend to have a better prognosis (for example, they respond better to chemoradiation compared to other causes such as smo...[Read More] Understanding HPV Persistence and Cancer Risks After Treatment
Understanding Appendiceal Cancer: Causes, Genetics, and Research Gaps
Appendiceal cancer issues? There is very little information about appendiceal cancer online. I still don't understand why my mother passed away from stage IV appendiceal cancer. Her colonoscopy results were normal, and she didn't even have any polyps. Could it be becaus...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Regarding the question of who gets cancer and why, it is currently believed to be caused by multiple factors. The relationships and the weight of their influence are still unclear, so I cannot provide you with a definitive answer. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Appendiceal Cancer: Causes, Genetics, and Research Gaps
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
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
Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
For HER2-positive breast cancer, after one year of treatment with trastuzumab (Herceptin), it is important to evaluate the patient's individual situation, including the response to treatment and any potential side effects. Continuing treatment may be recommended based on the...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to consider the following options: 1. The PET scan shows a very faint residual lesion in the left chest wall; should consideration be given to resecting the residual lesion to enhance treatment efficacy? 2. Continue maintenance therapy with anti-cancer treatment...[Read More] Should HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Patients Continue Treatment After One Year?
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?
Can Exercise Help Relieve Itchy Skin from Cancer Treatment Side Effects?
Medication side effects: Does exercise help with dry and itchy skin? Hello doctor, my aunt (67) is undergoing targeted therapy for breast cancer, and her hands and feet are very red and itchy. The last time she scratched, she broke the skin, and the wound hasn't healed yet. ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Patient: 67 years old, female 1. I think moderate exercise might be helpful? A: Exercising and sweating is great! You can refer to online articles: "Exercise!" Endorphins are the most powerful and effective antidepressants. We can't avoid exercising just because...[Read More] Can Exercise Help Relieve Itchy Skin from Cancer Treatment Side Effects?
Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Abdominal ascites examination? Hello, doctor. The hospital said there are multiple tumors in the abdomen and also ascites, with a slightly elevated inflammatory index. They suspect there may be issues with the ovaries and peritoneum. They performed an ascitic fluid analysis, and ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Yes, cancer examinations follow a standard procedure and require a certain amount of time. Initially, non-invasive tests (which have low risk, are easier to perform, and have fewer complications) are prioritized. If a clear diagnosis is not established, then invasive tests (which...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Ascites Testing in Oncology: What to Expect
Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
The CYFRA 21-1 level is elevated in the health checkup? Hello, doctor. After my full body check-up today, my CYFRA21-1 level was 2.57, while the normal range on the report is 2.37, exceeding it by 0.2 (I have a smoking history of about 12 years, I'm 31 years old, and there i...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
After the chest X-ray is completed, if there are any abnormalities, consider a self-paid low-dose computed tomography (CT) scan. Note: Based on smoking history and medical history, this individual belongs to a low-risk group for lung cancer; however, it is still recommended to co...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CYFRA 21-1 Levels: Next Steps for Lung Health
Understanding Your Low-Dose CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Low-Dose Computed Tomography Report Hello, three years ago I had a check-up that was normal. This time I paid out of pocket for another examination and just received the report. It indicates that there is a 3.5 mm ground-glass opacity (GGO) close to the right minor fissure that n...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hope / 39 years old / Female 1. I would like to ask what this means. A: 1.1 A 3.3 mm nodule in the breast cannot be definitively classified as normal or abnormal; it will be considered normal and will be monitored for any growth. However, there is no need to be anxious about i...[Read More] Understanding Your Low-Dose CT Report: Key Findings Explained
Understanding Stage IA1 Lung Adenocarcinoma and Tumor Marker Abnormalities
Stage I lung adenocarcinoma with abnormal tumor markers? Hello Doctor, this is my mother's pathology report from that time. NOMED: 28000-B-M81403, 29000-B-M09450 DX: Lung, right middle lobe, wedge resection - Invasive acinar adenocarcinoma, moderately differentiated (G2)...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Huang, 27 years old, male, has been diagnosed with stage I lung cancer. The Cyfra 21-1 level is 4.11, which is greater than the standard of 3.3 (first test). It is advisable to conduct follow-up testing for Cyfra 21-1 earlier, which is out-of-pocket, so you can have it checked ev...[Read More] Understanding Stage IA1 Lung Adenocarcinoma and Tumor Marker Abnormalities
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