Understanding Your Health Concerns: Tumor and Blood Cancer Insights
Various physical conditions Doctor: Because I am someone who easily worries and gets anxious about my health, I often ask various questions. I still have some conditions I would like to confirm. 1. Since January of this year, my morning body temperature has been around 36.7°C. ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
A-Zhe / 38 years old / Male 1. Since January of this year, my morning body temperature has been around 36.7°C. By noon to 9 PM, it rises to 37-37.2°C, and I feel a bit warm and have dry mouth. After 10 PM, it drops to around 36.5°C. I have undergone numerous blood tests (general...[Read More] Understanding Your Health Concerns: Tumor and Blood Cancer Insights
Understanding Bone Pain and Bruising: Is Blood Cancer a Concern?
Sternum issues Doctor, I have a question. I suddenly noticed a bruise on the front of my right calf, and I don't recall hitting it. It doesn't hurt much (today it has faded significantly and is almost healed). Additionally, a few days ago, I had some redness and swellin...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ah-Jeh / 38 years old / Male 1. Is there still a possibility of blood cancer? A: No, blood cancer refers to leukemia, which is characterized by the abnormal proliferation of white blood cells rather than a decrease. 2. Is it abnormal that the white blood cell count is sligh...[Read More] Understanding Bone Pain and Bruising: Is Blood Cancer a Concern?
Understanding the Spread of Papillary Thyroid Cancer: What You Need to Know
Thyroid papillary carcinoma metastasis I'm sorry to hear about your family's situation. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
I’m not sure if the lymphatic metastasis you mentioned refers to lymph nodes throughout the body (excluding distant organs such as the lungs, liver, and brain) or if it includes both regional lymph nodes and distant organ metastasis. The definitions of these two scenarios and the...[Read More] Understanding the Spread of Papillary Thyroid Cancer: What You Need to Know
PET Scans After Breast Cancer Radiation: Understanding False Positives
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is performed immediately after completing radiation therapy for breast cancer? Hello Dr. Chen: If a patient has just completed radiation therapy (after having undergone a lumpectomy) and then undergoes a PET scan, could the area that rece...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mary / 60 years old / Female Dear Mary, It is generally recommended to wait two months after completing radiation therapy. 1. The treated area may show diffuse enhancement, which is different from malignant tumors, so it can theoretically be distinguished. 2. However, if you ...[Read More] PET Scans After Breast Cancer Radiation: Understanding False Positives
Mucus in Stool: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns for Teens
Mucus present in stool wiping? I am currently 14 years old. Recently, when I wipe after using the bathroom, there is mucus on the toilet paper (similar to clear nasal mucus). I'm not sure if the amount is a lot or a little, but the mucus usually surrounds the stool. I'm...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
There are anal glands located near the anus, which secrete mucus responsible for lubricating the rectal and perianal tissues. Therefore, this is a normal physiological phenomenon and should not cause excessive concern.[Read More] Mucus in Stool: Understanding Symptoms and Concerns for Teens
Understanding Movable Groin Lumps: Are They Lymph Nodes?
Lump in the groin? In the past few days, I have noticed a soft, movable lump near my groin on both sides, close to the genital area. It doesn't hurt, and when I press on it, it slides about 1 centimeter but I can't determine its actual shape. Could this be a lymph node?...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous Lady: Thank you for your letter. 1. Is this a lymph node? A: It could be a lymph node, a lipoma, or other benign tumors. A physician should personally examine it to make a proper assessment, as we cannot completely rule out the possibility of malignancy. However, if ...[Read More] Understanding Movable Groin Lumps: Are They Lymph Nodes?
Should My 67-Year-Old Mother with 1cm Breast Cancer Undergo Chemotherapy?
Breast cancer measuring 1 cm without metastasis, uncertain whether to undergo chemotherapy? Dear Dr. Lai, My mother is currently 67 years old and has hypertension. She is continuously taking medications including Clonidine, Bisoprolol, and Amlodipine. She also has bone spur issu...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Ms. Lai: Whether adjuvant chemotherapy is needed after breast cancer surgery primarily depends on the tumor size. For example, if the tumor is larger than 1 cm or there is axillary lymph node metastasis, adjuvant chemotherapy is recommended. Here, it is important to explain...[Read More] Should My 67-Year-Old Mother with 1cm Breast Cancer Undergo Chemotherapy?
Understanding Axillary Lumps: Are They Cancerous?
Axillary lump I have had breast cancer for almost 9 years. There is currently swelling in my left armpit, where I had breast cancer surgery. When I raise my arm, it is noticeably swollen, but it does not hurt when I press on it, and I cannot feel a distinct lump. Could this be a ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding your symptoms, please visit a breast surgery specialist for evaluation. The doctor will perform a physical examination and further confirm the diagnosis. Treatment, prescriptions, or diagnostic reports cannot be provided without a personal examination by the phys...[Read More] Understanding Axillary Lumps: Are They Cancerous?
Can Normal Blood Tests Rule Out Blood Cancer? Understanding Sternum Pain
Midsternal tenderness Hello, doctor. Two weeks ago, I went to the hospital for a blood test because I had many small red spots on my arm, suspecting a coagulation issue. The report showed everything was normal, with normal blood cell counts and types of white blood cells. However...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Generally, a bone marrow biopsy is performed to diagnose blood cancer only after abnormal results are found in blood tests. You asked if it is possible to have blood cancer despite normal blood test results. In my 15 years as a physician, with 7 years specializing in hemat...[Read More] Can Normal Blood Tests Rule Out Blood Cancer? Understanding Sternum Pain
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment
A large and a small mass on the left side of the neck? Hello Doctor, at the end of July, I felt pain near my jaw, but there were no other symptoms. Then, in early August, I had acute gastroenteritis. The doctor found a small hard lump on the left side of my neck, which he suspect...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, Xiao Gao. Regarding your condition: 1. The lymph nodes have become larger (approximately 2 cm). 2. They feel firm. 3. There is also a small one that may indeed have a possibility of cancer. It is reasonable for the physician to prescribe antibiotics initially, considering ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Causes, Concerns, and Treatment
Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: Insights on Swelling and Inflammation
I have another question regarding lymphatic issues? Hello Dr. Chen, in February I had a mouth ulcer and swelling and pain in my left parotid lymph nodes. I also accidentally found a lymph node near the left side of my neck, close to the clavicle. Later, my mouth healed, and the l...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. If you keep pressing it, it will only make you more anxious and panicked. A: It's advisable not to keep pressing it, as it may irritate the area. If you check it once a day to monitor its size, that would be fine! 2. Do you think the lymph nodes near the clavicle are nor...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: Insights on Swelling and Inflammation
How Soon After Breast Cancer Surgery Should Radiation Therapy Begin?
Typically, how long after breast cancer surgery does radiation therapy begin? Hello Doctor: After my family member's breast cancer surgery, it was assessed that chemotherapy is not needed, but radiation therapy is required. However, after visiting the radiation oncology clin...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: Generally, it is hoped that radiation therapy will begin within 6 weeks after breast cancer surgery. Thank you for your message! Taoyuan Hospital, Chen Si-Rong.[Read More] How Soon After Breast Cancer Surgery Should Radiation Therapy Begin?
Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer: Impact on Lymph Node Areas
Radiation therapy for lymphatic regions in breast cancer? Hello Dr. Lai, I would like to ask if the lymphatic areas are also irradiated during radiation therapy for the breast, or if there is a need to specifically adjust the radiation angles? The pathology report indicates tha...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding radiation therapy, it is aimed at treating cancer cells. If there are no cancer cells, radiation therapy is not necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about you. Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng.[Read More] Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer: Impact on Lymph Node Areas
Can Nucleic Acid Drinks Really Repair Cells and Inhibit Cancer Growth?
Food Consultation Hello Dr. Hu: Currently, friends and family are introducing a product called "Fuzhi Zhi" from Japan, which claims that nucleic acids can inhibit cancer cell growth and repair cells. Its product is a nucleic acid beverage with natural DN collagen, pri...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. From a theoretical perspective, it can repair DNA and eliminate free radicals, reducing cellular damage and long-term chronic inflammation. 2. From a clinical standpoint, such products are classified as dietary supplements; regarding their efficacy in cancer prevention and inh...[Read More] Can Nucleic Acid Drinks Really Repair Cells and Inhibit Cancer Growth?
Can Frequent Vomiting Lead to Esophageal Cancer? Understanding Risks and Prevention
Is it possible to develop esophageal cancer from frequent vomiting or self-induced vomiting? Hello Doctor, my family has a history of cancer genes. Due to my own obesity and external stress, I sometimes engage in binge eating followed by purging. Additionally, because of work-rel...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: I apologize for the late response. In short: Yes, repeated vomiting can lead to gastroesophageal reflux, which indeed increases the risk of esophageal cancer. This is true. You can eat until you are full, but avoid inducing vomiting or continuous vomiting. The esophagus, w...[Read More] Can Frequent Vomiting Lead to Esophageal Cancer? Understanding Risks and Prevention
Impact of Radiation Therapy on GORE-TEX in Nasal Reconstruction
The effect of radiation therapy on GORE-TEX materials? Hello doctor, I previously underwent rhinoplasty using GORE-TEX material due to a car accident. I have recently been diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer and need to undergo radiation therapy. I would like to know if radiatio...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Ms. Samy, the area of your nose is not within the radiation zone for nasopharyngeal carcinoma, so it should not affect the use of GORE-TEX material for the procedure. Changhua Hospital, Department of Radiation Oncology, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, May 21, 2018.[Read More] Impact of Radiation Therapy on GORE-TEX in Nasal Reconstruction
Understanding Synovial Sarcoma: A Rare and Challenging Tumor
Synovial sarcoma Hello, doctor. My brother was diagnosed with a malignant tumor in his kidney two months ago, measuring 5.4 x 4 cm. It was suspected to be renal cell carcinoma (RCC), but after surgery, the pathology results indicated it was Ewing sarcoma. A comprehensive examinat...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Your brother has been diagnosed with synovial sarcoma, which is a rare type of cancer. Currently, I do not have experience in treating this disease. The primary treatment for this condition is surgery. If the tumor is not completely resected or if the cells are of high-grade mali...[Read More] Understanding Synovial Sarcoma: A Rare and Challenging Tumor
Understanding Bloating and Weight Loss: Signs of Possible Small Intestinal Issues
Recently, I have been experiencing persistent abdominal bloating and discomfort, along with weight loss? Doctor, last month I started experiencing bloating and a feeling of heaviness in my abdomen. Eventually, I couldn't tolerate it anymore and ended up vomiting after eating...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: If you had both an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and a colonoscopy last year, have you had an abdominal ultrasound done? Small intestine cancer is extremely rare and does not even rank among the top fifteen cancers, so it is generally not considered in clinical practice...[Read More] Understanding Bloating and Weight Loss: Signs of Possible Small Intestinal Issues
Understanding Testicular Masses: Signs, Symptoms, and Concerns
Testicular mass I noticed a lump about a year ago, but it hasn't significantly increased in size. Recently, it seems to have grown a little. It hurts a bit when pressed, but it doesn't hurt when touched. The lump feels soft and is movable. Could this be testicular cance...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It feels like the testicle or epididymis has enlarged. If there is no discomfort, it is recommended to simply observe.[Read More] Understanding Testicular Masses: Signs, Symptoms, and Concerns
Understanding Enlarged Neck Lymph Nodes: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Cervical lymphadenopathy Hello Doctor, I have a swollen lymph node on the right side of my neck near the collarbone, approximately 0.5 cm in size. I have been monitoring it for two to three months, and it hasn't changed in size. It is movable. Last Thursday and Friday, I not...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Chen / 27 years old / Male Hello, if you have any concerns, the best approach is to visit an otolaryngologist for an outpatient consultation. It would be beneficial to have a thorough examination of the entire nasopharynx, oropharynx, throat, and neck. Trust in the physician...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Neck Lymph Nodes: Should You Worry About Cancer?