Can Radiation and Chemotherapy Be Combined for Cancer Treatment?
Can radiation therapy and chemotherapy be done together? Hello, Director Lai. I have a matter I am unsure about. My wife was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer, which recurred three years later and metastasized to the lymph nodes on the other side. After two years of chemothera...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Lee, Regarding your question, radiation therapy and chemotherapy can be administered simultaneously. It is important to take advantage of the optimal treatment window and not delay therapy any further. If you experience any side effects during the treatment process, pl...[Read More] Can Radiation and Chemotherapy Be Combined for Cancer Treatment?
Understanding Ear Tumors: What Could a Soft Lump in Your Ear Mean?
Ear tumor Doctor, I have a soft lump at the entrance of my right ear canal. When I press on it, it flattens, and I feel a small hard lump inside that seems to move. When I release the pressure, it expands back into a lump. Could this be ear canal cancer? I have researched a lot, ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Cheng Cheng, Regarding your symptoms, please visit an otolaryngology specialist for evaluation. The doctor will perform a physical examination and further confirm the diagnosis. Thank you for reaching out for consultation. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng Department of Ra...[Read More] Understanding Ear Tumors: What Could a Soft Lump in Your Ear Mean?
Differences Between Erbitux and Vectibix in Stage IV Colorectal Cancer Treatment
The differences between Erbitux (cetuximab) and Vectibix (panitumumab) lie primarily in their molecular structure, indications, and specific mechanisms of action. Erbitux is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that targets the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and is primarily...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. It is usually necessary to check for BRAF mutations. 2. Both options have similar efficacy, so there is no particular preference for one over the other; it is recommended to discuss any further questions in detail with your treating physician.[Read More] Differences Between Erbitux and Vectibix in Stage IV Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Choosing Between Erbitux and Vectibix for Stage IV Colon Cancer
Targeted therapy options for stage IV colorectal cancer? In the case of stage IV colorectal cancer, both Erbitux (cetuximab) and Vectibix (panitumumab) require RAS gene testing to ensure there are no mutations before they can be used. What are the differences between the two? How...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Chen, Regarding your inquiry, the National Health Insurance has specific reimbursement regulations: 1. Cetuximab (e.g., Erbitux): a. For the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer: i. First-line treatment for patients with RAS wild-type metastatic colorect...[Read More] Choosing Between Erbitux and Vectibix for Stage IV Colon Cancer
Understanding Tongue Symptoms: Should You Worry About Oral Cancer?
I have noticed a sore or ulcer on one side of my tongue in the past couple of days, and I'm concerned whether this could be a precursor to tongue cancer? Question 1: I noticed a small indentation on one side of my tongue over the past couple of days. The wound doesn't l...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello, I apologize for the late reply (I was abroad for 8 days). I have looked at the pictures you uploaded to Google Photos. This does not resemble the tongue cancer I commonly see; it appears to be just an ulcer. Please don't worry too much, and focus on eating more fruits...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Symptoms: Should You Worry About Oral Cancer?
Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: Are They Always Cancerous?
Lymphadenopathy Doctor, doctor!!! I'm sorry to ask! 😭 Two weeks ago, I felt a lymph node about 0.8 mm in size in my neck. It moves around when I touch it, but it doesn't hurt. Recently, in the last two days, I suddenly felt two more lymph nodes of the same size, also 0....
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is likely just lymphadenopathy; avoid constantly irritating it, and it should resolve on its own after some time.[Read More] Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: Are They Always Cancerous?
Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Hyperthermia Hello, doctor... I started experiencing fever, body weakness, muscle aches, sore throat, and a bit of nasal congestion on the morning of March 21. I visited a clinic, and the doctor diagnosed me with a cold. During the cold, my highest fever reached 38.7°C, and my te...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It's advisable to wait until the cold has completely resolved (2-3 weeks). If your body temperature is still elevated (>37.8°C), then consider visiting an infectious disease specialist for an initial evaluation.[Read More] Persistent Low-Grade Fever: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Thyroid Nodules: Cyst or Cancer? Understanding Your Diagnosis
Thyroid cyst or malignant tumor? I have a lump about 1.5 cm in size on the left side of my neck near the Adam's apple. I'm unsure if it's hard or soft, but it's definitely not as hard as bone (in reference to the hardness of related cancer tumors). It is movab...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Mr. Luo: A thyroid cyst is a fluid-filled sac found within the thyroid gland. Thyroid cysts typically do not present symptoms unless they are large or if there is bleeding within the cyst, which may cause some compressive symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, breat...[Read More] Thyroid Nodules: Cyst or Cancer? Understanding Your Diagnosis
Understanding Nasopharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia: When to Consider a Second Biopsy?
Please provide the content you would like me to translate? Hello: I asked a question on November 30 last year regarding a right neck swelling and a right nasopharyngeal lymphoid tumor. The tumor measured 0.6*0.5*0.4 cm, and the biopsy results indicated lymphoid hyperplasia in the...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding your question, you may visit the ENT outpatient clinic to consult with a physician for an assessment on whether further examination or regular follow-up is necessary. Thank you for reaching out. Sincerely, Dr. Lai Yi-Cheng, Department of Radiation Oncology, Chang...[Read More] Understanding Nasopharyngeal Lymphoid Hyperplasia: When to Consider a Second Biopsy?
Understanding Lumps: Should You Worry About a Hard Mass Behind Your Ear?
Lump issue Hello doctor, I have noticed a hard lump behind my ear for almost a year. It used to be somewhat elastic and about two centimeters in size, but recently it has become harder and shrunk to about 0.8 centimeters. It can still move slightly, and there is no redness, swell...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: For this type of lump, you can visit the ENT department at a hospital for a consultation with a physician. Generally, common findings include benign lipomas or sebaceous cysts (similar to acne), but a physician's examination is necessary for a more accurate diagnosis....[Read More] Understanding Lumps: Should You Worry About a Hard Mass Behind Your Ear?
Understanding Blood Test Results: A Guide for Cancer Patients
I don't understand the blood test report? I have a habit of donating platelets, but the center has noted abnormal results in my last three tests and referred me to a hospital for blood tests. However, I do not understand the meaning of the values and would like to consult a ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Thrombocytopenia (<100,000, your count is 47,000), combined with a history of splenomegaly, initially raises suspicion for "idiopathic (autoimmune) thrombocytopenic purpura." However, a definitive diagnosis requires further testing and the exclusion of other potentia...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: A Guide for Cancer Patients
Understanding PSA Fluctuations After Prostate Cancer Surgery: What to Expect
Prostate cancer has undergone radical surgery? Hello Doctor, my father is 74 years old today and has a history of diabetes. He was diagnosed with stage III prostate cancer four months ago, with cancer cells invading the seminal vesicles but no lymphatic or bone metastasis. One mo...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The normal PSA level for individuals is generally below 4. If it exceeds 4, it usually raises concerns. If the level falls between 4 and 20, it may indicate cancer or other conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostatitis. However, if the level is above 20, c...[Read More] Understanding PSA Fluctuations After Prostate Cancer Surgery: What to Expect
Understanding Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Insights from a Cancer Patient
I was overwhelmed by lymph nodes? Dr. Chen, first of all, I want to thank you for saving me from panic and helplessness a few years ago on this platform. Recently, those feelings have returned, and I have many questions I would like to ask you: 1. A few weeks ago, I accidentall...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Patient: Xiao Ke / 37 years old / Male 1. I brushed my teeth too hard and hit my lower gum, resulting in an ulcer the next day. A: This allowed bacteria to enter, causing inflammation and resulting in swollen lymph nodes in the neck, which is quite reasonable. 2. On February 20...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Insights from a Cancer Patient
Understanding Afternoon Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns in Oncology
Afternoon low-grade fever with normal temperature at night? Hello, doctor. For the past two to three weeks, my body temperature has varied from 36.5 to 36.8 degrees Celsius before noon, rising to 37 to 37.3 degrees Celsius starting at noon, and then dropping to around 36.5 degree...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The white blood cell count you mentioned is within the normal range (4,000-9,000), which is not unusual! Generally speaking, fever caused by blood cancers typically exceeds 38 degrees Celsius, while your temperature is still within the normal range. Thank you for your inqu...[Read More] Understanding Afternoon Fever: Possible Causes and Concerns in Oncology
Understanding Elevated NSE Levels: Anxiety, Inflammation, or Cancer Risk?
The NSE index is too high? Hello, doctor. I recently went to a medical laboratory for cancer screening, and one of the tests showed an elevated NSE level of 22.39. My family has no history of lung cancer, and I asked the laboratory technician about this. He mentioned that it coul...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Currently, NSE cannot be used for cancer screening or monitoring. However, if you are a smoker, it is recommended to have a follow-up test in three months. If the levels continue to rise, it is advisable to consult a pulmonologist or a hematologist for further evaluation.[Read More] Understanding Elevated NSE Levels: Anxiety, Inflammation, or Cancer Risk?
Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
For breast cancer staged as 1A N0(i) M0 after complete surgical resection, the need for chemotherapy or targeted therapy depends on several factors, including the tumor's hormone receptor status (estrogen and progesterone receptors), HER2 status, and the patient's overa...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Miss LISA, I have received your letter and appreciate the detailed information you provided. Here is a summary of the findings: 1. Your friend has Stage IA breast cancer, not in situ carcinoma. 2. Tumor characteristics: the tumor measures ≤ 1 mm, with three foci. 3. Lymph ...[Read More] Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Breast cancer issues? Hello Doctor: My mother has stage III breast cancer that has metastasized to the lymph nodes. She underwent surgery for breast and lymph node removal but has not received chemotherapy. Currently, her blood tests show normal CEA levels, but one item, the cyto...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Regarding these questions, I am unable to provide answers because 1. The person who ordered the blood tests for those specific markers is responsible for interpreting their significance. Moreover, whether a tumor has recurred cannot be determined solely by elevated tumor m...[Read More] Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Thyroid Cancer Patients
Lymphadenopathy of the posterior cervical region? Hello Doctor: I am a thyroid cancer patient (currently in stage I) and underwent a total thyroidectomy at the end of October this year. I am currently awaiting radioactive iodine treatment. At the same time, I have been dealing wi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Simon / 24 years old / Male Hello: You underwent a total thyroidectomy at the end of October this year and are currently awaiting radioactive iodine treatment. Therefore, you should have already undergone the I-131 scan post-surgery, which has confirmed that the lymph nodes you ...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes in Thyroid Cancer Patients
Why Nasopharyngeal Cancer Markers Rise After 96-Hour Chemotherapy?
The index for nasopharyngeal carcinoma is higher than the pre-treatment levels 96 hours after chemotherapy? Nasopharyngeal carcinoma stage 3, after two months of concurrent chemoradiotherapy followed by three consecutive months of chemotherapy for 96 hours each month, the nasopha...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The nasopharyngeal carcinoma index refers to the levels of EBV DNA titers. It is advisable to discuss this in detail with your attending physician.[Read More] Why Nasopharyngeal Cancer Markers Rise After 96-Hour Chemotherapy?
Could Your Symptoms Indicate Nasopharyngeal Cancer?
Is it possible to have nasopharyngeal carcinoma? Hello, Doctor! I have been experiencing symptoms of catching a cold about once a year. Almost every time I have a cold, I suffer from severe nasal congestion, which suddenly leads to intense pain and numbness in the left side of my...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Zhe, 33 years old, male. Hello! 1. In this situation, you can go to an otolaryngologist for a nasopharyngeal cancer examination. 2. Can this cancer present with these symptoms? A: Nerve compression may cause numbness; however, severe pain is rare. Wishing you a speedy recovery. T...[Read More] Could Your Symptoms Indicate Nasopharyngeal Cancer?