Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Breast tissue Hello, I previously inquired about this, but another physician seemed to misunderstand my question. They might have thought I was asking about bilateral asymmetry, so I would like to ask again about unilateral (local) asymmetry. Recently, a family member underwent...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
AC / 20 years old / Female. The breast ultrasound report needs to be explained by the physician; it cannot be interpreted solely based on the information you provided regarding asymmetry. Please return to the physician's clinic for a face-to-face consultation. Happy New Year...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Understanding Neck Lumps: Are They Signs of Nasopharyngeal Cancer?
Small hard lump in the neck? Hello, doctor. Before I caught a cold, I noticed a small hard lump about 2 cm in size on the left side of my neck near the jawline. It is not painful and is movable. Could this possibly be nasopharyngeal cancer or something concerning? (Since it is no...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Xiaomei / 12 years old / Female 1. It is quite rare for a 12-year-old girl to be diagnosed with cancer. 2. There is a lump that feels malignant but is movable, suggesting it is likely benign. Given her age, it is mostly likely to be benign, but she should visit a hospital for...[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: Are They Signs of Nasopharyngeal Cancer?
Managing Low Blood Counts After Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer
Post-chemotherapy indices are low? Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about my grandmother, whose cancer cells have metastasized to her lungs. She has undergone approximately four rounds of chemotherapy, but the doctor mentioned that all her levels are low, and she should avo...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Ms. Huang, Important precautions during chemotherapy: 1. Wear a mask when visiting public places. During periods of low white blood cell counts, avoid going to crowded areas to reduce the risk of bacterial infections. 2. Avoid contact with individuals who have colds, measl...[Read More] Managing Low Blood Counts After Chemotherapy for Lung Cancer
Post-Colon Cancer Complications: Adhesions and Bowel Incontinence Solutions
Postoperative intestinal adhesions after colorectal cancer surgery? Hello, Doctor. My father was diagnosed with stage II colon cancer four years ago. He initially underwent chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before having surgery to preserve his anus, which unfortunately resulted i...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Sir: Question 1: Regarding new technologies, it would be better to consult a surgeon for more clarity. Question 2: Postoperative adhesions are often caused by previous abdominal surgeries, pelvic inflammatory disease due to infections, or even as a result of chemotherapy...[Read More] Post-Colon Cancer Complications: Adhesions and Bowel Incontinence Solutions
Understanding Nasal Sebaceous Cysts: Do They Require Surgery?
There is a polyp in the nose? I recently visited an otolaryngologist because I found a white, protruding growth inside my nose. The doctor told me it was a sebaceous cyst and mentioned that as long as it doesn't grow larger or cause pain, surgery is not necessary due to its ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Tseng: The exact cause of sebaceous cysts is unknown, and cases are reported year-round. These cysts are located in the dermis or subcutaneous fat layer of the skin. Due to the unclear etiology, it is speculated that they may form when dead keratinized cells from the epidermi...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Sebaceous Cysts: Do They Require Surgery?
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Is It Relapse or Just Maintenance Therapy?
Multiple Myeloma Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my family member who has successfully undergone autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma. However, after six months of follow-up, the doctor wants to administer chemotherapy again (with an IgG level of 156...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Until now, regardless of any treatment, we hematologists must acknowledge that multiple myeloma is still considered "incurable." However, its treatment can significantly prolong life (for several years, perhaps 3-4 years, or even longer!). Therefore, in the treat...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Is It Relapse or Just Maintenance Therapy?
Understanding Thyroid Cancer: Key Questions and Surgical Considerations
Thyroid cancer issues? Hello Doctor: I previously asked you a question, and I appreciate your response. I have a thyroid nodule on the right side that is approximately 2.2 cm. The fine needle aspiration report indicates calcification, cellular mutation, and unclear margins, with ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
In response to your question: 1. The thyroid nodule is 2.2 cm; if it is confirmed to be malignant, complete removal is necessary. 2. Endoscopic surgery has smaller incisions and lower risks compared to traditional surgery. 3. Preoperative evaluations, in addition to blood tests (...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Cancer: Key Questions and Surgical Considerations
Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Unilateral breast tissue asymmetry? Hello, my family member recently had a breast ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that there is asymmetry in the tissue of one breast. He advised a follow-up appointment next week. What does unilateral breast tissue asymmetry mean? Is it a pre...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The asymmetry in breast size does not necessarily correlate with breast cancer; it may be premature to make such a conclusion. Of course, the presence of microcalcifications is a concerning finding on mammography, but the definitive diagnosis of breast cancer ultimately re...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Optimal Dosing Intervals for TS-1 in Cancer Treatment
TS-1 dosing interval Thank you for your previous response. I have another question: TS-1 is prescribed to be taken within 30 minutes after breakfast and dinner. If the timing of breakfast and dinner is not fixed, what is the minimum time interval that should be maintained between...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Mr. Jiang: Regarding the recommended interval between medication doses, it is advised to have at least 6 hours between meals. Additionally, since you are currently undergoing chemotherapy, it is suggested to keep your meal times as consistent as possible, as this is better ...[Read More] Optimal Dosing Intervals for TS-1 in Cancer Treatment
Understanding Movable Neck and Chest Lumps: When to Seek Specialist Care
A movable mass was found in the neck and chest? Hello Doctor, I have had a lipoma on the back of my neck since my teenage years, which was surgically removed by a plastic surgeon last year. This year, I discovered a movable round mass about 2 cm on the right side of my neck, whic...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Happy New Year! If you have a neck lump in Australia, you should see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist or a Plastic Surgeon. Thank you for your message. Chen Sih-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Understanding Movable Neck and Chest Lumps: When to Seek Specialist Care
Can TS-1 for Pancreatic Cancer Be Taken After Liquid Meals?
Consultation on the administration of TS-1? Is the pancreatic cancer medication TS-1 required to be taken after meals? If I am unable to eat, is it acceptable to take it after drinking Ensure liquid nutrition?
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Mr. Jiang: 1. According to research, administering medication in a fasting state alters the bioavailability of oteracil potassium. Additionally, the phosphorylation of capecitabine is inhibited, which reduces its antitumor efficacy. Therefore, TS-1 should be taken after m...[Read More] Can TS-1 for Pancreatic Cancer Be Taken After Liquid Meals?
Should Further Testing Be Done for Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis?
Is further examination or diagnosis necessary? Dear Dr. Chen, My mother is 57 years old and has been experiencing coughing symptoms regardless of whether she has a cold. In December 2014, she underwent ultrasound, fine needle aspiration, and MRI at a major hospital due to left-s...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Elaine / 33 years old / Female Hello: 1. The attending physician only informed my mother that the examination results indicated "malignant tumor or suspected malignant tumor, specifically papillary thyroid carcinoma." As you mentioned, it has already been confirmed as...[Read More] Should Further Testing Be Done for Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis?
Understanding Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma: Key Questions and Answers
Could you please provide more details about your question regarding papillary thyroid carcinoma? Hello Doctor: Could you please give me some good advice? I am feeling very anxious and worried. In November, I went to see a family physician due to discomfort and a rapid heartbeat. ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Lee: 1. We will confirm the true condition once the fine needle aspiration (FNA) report is available, which will help determine if it is indeed papillary thyroid carcinoma. 2. If the FNA report confirms papillary thyroid carcinoma, please do not worry; this type of cancer has...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma: Key Questions and Answers
Can Esophageal Tumors Fluctuate in Size Before Treatment?
Tumor issues Hello, doctor: Is it possible for a malignant tumor in the esophagus to fluctuate in size before any treatment is administered? For example, during an endoscopy, could it appear larger if there is inflammation present? Thank you.
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Chen: Has the esophageal malignancy you mentioned been confirmed by a pathological biopsy? Am I interpreting your question correctly as asking whether "during endoscopy, esophagitis can present with fluctuating severity, with swallowing symptoms improving and worsening i...[Read More] Can Esophageal Tumors Fluctuate in Size Before Treatment?
Understanding Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Post-treatment for breast cancer? Your mother is currently sixty years old and underwent a left mastectomy on December 21, 2015. The tumor measured 0.7 cm with no lymph node metastasis, and testing revealed HER2+++ which is considered positive. The physician has recommended chemo...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Han: 1. Your mother has a left breast cancer tumor measuring 0.7 cm, with no lymph node metastasis. Her2 is 3+ (positive), estrogen receptor positive (+, 10%), and progesterone receptor positive (+, 40%). She underwent a left mastectomy on December 21, 2015. 2. According to t...[Read More] Understanding Post-Surgery Treatment Options for Breast Cancer
Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Stage II breast cancer Hello Dr. Lai: I was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer at the end of 2014 and underwent a total mastectomy. At the same time, there was another tumor about 1 cm on the opposite side, which the doctor assessed as benign through a core needle biopsy, so i...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Miss: 1. Mammography and breast ultrasound cannot provide a definitive diagnosis; only a pathological biopsy can confirm it with 100% accuracy. 2. Since you are now 55 years old and postmenopausal, it is still recommended that you undergo a mammogram. (Premenopausal women ...[Read More] Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer: Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Understanding Metastasis Risks During HER2 Breast Cancer Treatment
Is there a possibility of metastasis during breast cancer treatment? Hello, doctor. My mother was diagnosed with breast cancer (HER2 type) in May 2015. She has completed six rounds of chemotherapy and has undergone surgery for local excision, targeted therapy, and radiation thera...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Miss: 1. It is relatively uncommon for breast cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy, and targeted drug treatment to experience distant metastasis (unless the breast cancer is at a very advanced stage with a high number of infected axillary l...[Read More] Understanding Metastasis Risks During HER2 Breast Cancer Treatment
Could This Lump Be Cancer? Understanding Signs and Symptoms
Could this be cancer? There is a hard lump in the neck connecting the hairline and the collarbone. Many online sources suggest that if there is no pain upon pressure, it is not a sign of cancer. Is this correct? How can one distinguish whether it is cancer? Please answer these tw...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yuan Yuan / 21 years old / Female 1. There is a hard lump at the junction of the neck and hairline, as well as above the collarbone. Many online sources suggest that if there is no pain when pressing on it, it is not a sign of cancer. Is this correct? It is not entirely accurate...[Read More] Could This Lump Be Cancer? Understanding Signs and Symptoms
Can Stopping Betel Nut Consumption Reduce Cancer Risk?
Shoulder pain If I used to chew betel nut but no longer do, will I get cancer? I went to a clinic for an examination, and the doctor said everything is fine.
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, sir: It is recommended that you visit an otolaryngology department for an examination or go to major hospitals for cancer screening. Our hospital offers free head and neck as well as otolaryngology cancer screenings for individuals aged 30 and above. You are welcome to com...[Read More] Can Stopping Betel Nut Consumption Reduce Cancer Risk?
Understanding Chemotherapy Options for Advanced Bile Duct Cancer
A 9 cm cholangiocarcinoma tumor? Hello Dr. Chen: My grandfather is in his seventies. When bile duct cancer was discovered, the tumor was already 9 centimeters and had metastasized to the abdominal cavity. The hospital mentioned that the family could consider chemotherapy, but my ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Currently, there are not many chemotherapy drugs available for cholangiocarcinoma. Generally, physicians may choose injectable options such as 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU), Gemcitabine (Gemzar), or Cisplatin (selecting one or two of these). Additionally, there is an oral chemothe...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy Options for Advanced Bile Duct Cancer