Exploring Treatment Options for Advanced Diffuse Liver Cancer
Diffuse hepatocellular carcinoma in advanced stage? Hello, my husband, who is 51 years old, was diagnosed with advanced diffuse liver cancer in early September. The doctors have said that it is untreatable. His bilirubin level has reached 12. I would like to know if there are any...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Afen / 51 years old / Female I can only repeat: doctors say it is untreatable. A glimmer of hope: it depends on your definition: everyone will reach the end point, and those with diffuse liver cancer are very close to it. You can try: targeted therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy...[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for Advanced Diffuse Liver Cancer
Managing Nutrition and Diabetes During Stage IV Oral Cancer Chemotherapy
Patient is undergoing chemotherapy for stage IV oral cancer but has diabetes? Hello Doctor, my father is 50 years old, does not smoke, drink, or chew betel nut, and does not have dentures, yet he was recently diagnosed with stage IV oral cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes....
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: For my cancer patients, I do not expect them to maintain perfect blood sugar levels; keeping it below 200 is sufficient. There is no need for strict control, as the cancer itself and the treatment process often lead to decreased appetite. By the end of the treatment, most ...[Read More] Managing Nutrition and Diabetes During Stage IV Oral Cancer Chemotherapy
Understanding Risks and Concerns for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Hormone receptor negative, HER2 positive, lymph node metastasis (T2N2M0 / Stage IIB) Hello Dr. Chen, my mother was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer (HER2+, with lymph node metastasis) last month. She has undergone one round of chemotherapy, and 12-13 days after chemotherapy,...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kathy / 45 years old / Female 1. Is there a risk associated with tooth extraction after chemotherapy? Are there any precautions? A: There is a risk of infection. It may be considered to suture the extraction site (usually, tooth extractions do not require sutures, allowing the w...[Read More] Understanding Risks and Concerns for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Understanding Soft Neck Lumps: Common Causes and Symptoms Explained
Lump in the back of the neck? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about a lump I recently found on my sister's neck, towards the back. It feels soft to the touch and she says it doesn't hurt. She mentioned that the lump appeared a few months ago (about one to two months)...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Dear concerned sister, I would like to ask about a lump that I recently felt on my sister's neck at the back. She mentioned that it doesn't hurt and that the lump has been there for a few months. 1. What are the usual causes? A: If it feels soft, it could be a lipo...[Read More] Understanding Soft Neck Lumps: Common Causes and Symptoms Explained
Managing Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer: Chemotherapy and Nutritional Support
Pancreatic cancer issues? Dear Doctor, My family member has stage IV pancreatic cancer that has metastasized to the liver. Is chemotherapy recommended? If chemotherapy is undertaken, what is the approximate life expectancy? Currently, they have no appetite and are unable to eat...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
In stage IV pancreatic cancer, if the patient's physical condition is still acceptable (able to move freely, without cachexia, etc.), chemotherapy is still recommended. As for the survival period, it primarily depends on the patient's response to treatment and changes i...[Read More] Managing Stage IV Pancreatic Cancer: Chemotherapy and Nutritional Support
Is Frequent CT Scanning Safe for Ovarian Cancer Survivors?
Radiation Issues Hello Dr. Chen, I was diagnosed with stage II ovarian cancer two years ago and have been undergoing regular follow-ups after completing chemotherapy. Since my diagnosis, I have had five CT scans, and my doctor is scheduling a sixth scan for September. Is such fre...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Grace / 51 years old / Female 1. Is it necessary to have such frequent examinations? A: Examinations every 3 to 6 months are considered normal. Typically, if several consecutive tests are normal, the frequency can be changed to once every six months or once a year. 2. Will thi...[Read More] Is Frequent CT Scanning Safe for Ovarian Cancer Survivors?
Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know
For questions regarding blood test reports, please consult your doctor? Hello, Doctor. I actually visited a family medicine clinic this morning because my liver enzyme levels were around 40 and my cholesterol was just over 200, so I have been following up every three months. Howe...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The answer is the same, but in my words: I will ask you to come back in two weeks for a follow-up blood test. That's it; the current data doesn't indicate much. Medicine is a science, and we don't speculate without evidence. We only speak based on the eviden...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: What Your Doctor Wants You to Know
Understanding Chest CT Scans: Can They Detect Lung Tumors?
Interpretation of Chest Computed Tomography (CT) Hello Doctor, traditional chest computed tomography (CT) can detect tumors in the lungs, but I recently experienced hemoptysis and went to a large hospital for a CT scan, which reported normal results. However, a month later, I sti...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: This is a question about "predicting the future" and even as a physician, I cannot know whether I will develop lung cancer next month. 1. The resolution of a CT scan is generally defined as being able to detect lesions larger than 0.5 cm, so smaller lesions canno...[Read More] Understanding Chest CT Scans: Can They Detect Lung Tumors?
Understanding Cancer Genetics: Risks and Exercise for Prevention
Cancer Genetics Hello, doctor. My mother and father were diagnosed with cervical cancer and oral cancer, respectively, in their 70s (my father has a long-standing betel nut chewing habit). Does this significantly increase the likelihood of their children developing cancer? Is can...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, Ashu / 52 years old / Male 1. Will having children significantly increase the risk of cancer? A: Oral cancer is primarily caused by betel nut consumption. The question is whether you smoke, chew betel nut, or drink alcohol. Cervical cancer should not be a concern for you...[Read More] Understanding Cancer Genetics: Risks and Exercise for Prevention
Understanding Bone Metastasis Risk in Breast and Lung Cancer Patients
Does breast cancer metastasize? Hello Doctor: My mother was diagnosed with stage I breast cancer (surgically removed) and stage I lung adenocarcinoma (surgically removed) last year. She has been undergoing regular follow-ups, and her recent CEA levels were 3.8, 5.4, and 6.2 over ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Jerry / 43 years old / Male Hello: CT findings: 1. Degenerative changes of the thoracolumbar spine, scoliosis of the spine, and osteopenia with osteoporotic changes of the visible bony structures, indicating degeneration. 2. No definite osteolytic or osteoblastic lesions or bo...[Read More] Understanding Bone Metastasis Risk in Breast and Lung Cancer Patients
Navigating Cancer Care: Seeking Second Opinions and Treatment Options
Interdisciplinary treatment issues? My father originally had a small tumor in his lungs and would regularly visit the Pulmonology department for check-ups. Recently, due to sudden significant weight loss, he was referred by a new physician for a PET scan. After reviewing the repo...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. It is recommended to perform a biopsy first to determine the cause (benign or malignant, lung cancer or other), and then discuss whether further treatment is necessary. 2. You may consider referring to an oncology specialist for further evaluation.[Read More] Navigating Cancer Care: Seeking Second Opinions and Treatment Options
Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment: Is It Metastasis?
After breast cancer surgery, the CEA level increased from 3.8 at the end of chemotherapy to 5.4, with the most recent level being 6.2. Can this be confirmed as metastasis? The mother is 70 years old and was diagnosed with stage I breast cancer (which has been surgically removed) ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The blood cancer markers cannot definitively determine whether cancer has metastasized, especially since the CEA level is only 6, which makes it quite tenuous to draw any conclusions. Thank you for your response.[Read More] Understanding Rising CEA Levels After Breast Cancer Treatment: Is It Metastasis?
Dietary Tips for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Diet During Breast Cancer Chemotherapy Hello, Doctor: A friend's family member is undergoing chemotherapy for stage II breast cancer and is experiencing a loss of appetite. They searched online for dietary recommendations related to cancer chemotherapy, and many suggested ma...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Currently, there is no clinical evidence regarding the effects of food-based beverages on cancer chemotherapy. It is unclear whether they are harmful or beneficial. Therefore, I am unable to provide you with advice. Thank you![Read More] Dietary Tips for Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Understanding Groin Swelling: Is It Related to the HPV Vaccine?
Inguinal swelling? Due to the enlargement of the groin, a biopsy was performed, and the report indicated non-specific reactive hyperplasia, which is benign and may be caused by viral infection or external factors. Previously, I received the second dose of the cervical cancer vacc...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Eve / 33 years old / Female, is this a vaccine-related issue? A: Personally, I cannot determine that. Which department should I consult? A: I recommend that you first see an obstetrician-gynecologist. If that doesn't work, the OB-GYN should be able to provide you with furthe...[Read More] Understanding Groin Swelling: Is It Related to the HPV Vaccine?
Post-Surgery Treatment Considerations for Stage IVA Colon Cancer
Postoperative treatment issues for colorectal cancer? Hello Doctor: A senior in their seventies has undergone surgery for a malignant tumor in the rectum, confirmed to be stage IVA, with a CEA level in the fifties, and multiple tumors of varying sizes present in both lobes of the...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The most suitable respondent to these questions is the attending physician responsible for the treatment (to clarify the responsibility). Medical care is not a mechanical job; each person's experience and skills vary. I will answer based on my approach. 1. Generally...[Read More] Post-Surgery Treatment Considerations for Stage IVA Colon Cancer
Understanding Groin Swelling: Insights on Tumor Concerns and Diagnosis
Inguinal swelling Hello! I have been experiencing pain in my left groin and underwent an abdominal CT scan, which did not reveal any tumors. However, it showed a 1.3 cm protrusion on the left side that is not painful when pressed, can be moved, and feels somewhat firm. The right ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Eve / 33 years old / Female Hello! May I ask if the doctor means that cancer metastasis can also be detected by this hospital? A: I cannot guess what your physician meant, but you can wait for the report from Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. Usually, it will be sent to another ci...[Read More] Understanding Groin Swelling: Insights on Tumor Concerns and Diagnosis
Understanding Neck Lymph Nodes: When to Worry and Self-Monitoring Tips
Cervical lymph nodes Hello Doctor, a little over a month ago, I was moving and often didn't sleep well. I noticed some pain in my neck and found a very painful lymph node at the bottom of the sternocleidomastoid muscle, which is about 0.7 cm in size. Two weeks later, it was ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Lele / 35 years old / Female 1. The doctor advised me to self-monitor, and to return for a follow-up if there is any increase in size or pain. He mentioned that it might have been there for many years, and I only just noticed it. A: I agree with his recommendation. It has shrunk...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lymph Nodes: When to Worry and Self-Monitoring Tips
Understanding Lymph Node Enlargement in the Occipital Region: When to Worry?
Cervical lymphadenopathy Hello Dr. Chen: A couple of days ago, I asked you about the enlargement of the occipital lymph node, and I would like to confirm some details. Thank you! I have actually noticed that the single enlarged lymph node in the occipital region has been present ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Xiao Bao / 40 years old / Male 1. Do you think it is necessary to go to a large hospital for further examination due to the uncertainty of the tactile sensation? A: Generally, people visit a doctor for a cold 1-2 times a year. During that time, you can visit an otolaryngologis...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Enlargement in the Occipital Region: When to Worry?
Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes in the Armpit: Causes and Treatments
Axillary lymphadenopathy with pain? Hello doctor, I started experiencing swelling and pain in my left armpit lymph nodes since the afternoon of the day before yesterday. Yesterday afternoon, I went to a large hospital to see a doctor, who said my lymph nodes were quite swollen, b...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Marshmallow / 19 years old / Female Hello! Inflammation caused by bacterial or viral invasion can lead to lymphadenopathy. Wishing you a speedy recovery. Respectfully, Chen Sih-Rong Taoyuan Hospital[Read More] Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes in the Armpit: Causes and Treatments
Can Colon Cancer Surgery Patients Drink Chicken Essence?
Can patients who have undergone colorectal cancer surgery drink chicken essence? A family friend recently underwent a colon cancer resection surgery, and we are planning to visit them. We are unsure if it is appropriate to bring chicken essence for them to drink, considering they...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Li Ying / 18 years old / Female. A family friend recently underwent a colon cancer resection surgery, and I want to visit but I'm unsure if I can bring chicken essence for that friend to drink. A: Yes, you can. Taoyuan Hospital, Dr. Chen Sih-Rong.[Read More] Can Colon Cancer Surgery Patients Drink Chicken Essence?