Understanding Irregular Tumors: When to Seek Medical Advice
Abnormal tumor I have an irregular lump on my left cheek, about the size of a fingertip, which I discovered while washing my face. The other side of my cheek does not have anything like this. The lump is movable when I touch it, but it makes me feel uneasy. I'm not sure whic...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. If the mass on the left cheek is movable and feels soft, it is likely a benign tumor. 2. Most of the swelling below the ear is likely due to lymphadenopathy. 3. It is difficult to make a definitive diagnosis based solely on verbal descriptions; regular outpatient follow...[Read More] Understanding Irregular Tumors: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Lymph Node Cancer: Prognosis and Treatment Options
Intra-abdominal lymph node cancer My relative has had hemoglobin levels between 7 and 9 for many years, undergoing long-term treatment and taking iron supplements. Recently, the level dropped to 6, prompting a return to a major hospital for further examination. It was found that ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The recovery is not good. 2. Survival rates must take into account tumor size, lymph node metastasis, and other distant metastases; please consult his attending physician. 3. Any medical center is acceptable; there are no hospitals that specialize specifically in this d...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Cancer: Prognosis and Treatment Options
Understanding a Bump on the Head: Should You Worry About Tumors?
Cranial protrusion Hello Doctor, regarding the bump on the left side of my scalp, it has been bothering me for about 12 years. It is approximately 3 centimeters in diameter and protrudes about 0.5 centimeters. I didn't think much of it when I was younger and didn't want...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Xiao Hua: If it has been 12 years, it is likely not cancer or cerebral edema. This might be what the ancients referred to as "long zhun," perhaps you are the destined one and will become president in the future![Read More] Understanding a Bump on the Head: Should You Worry About Tumors?
Is There a Link Between Childhood Leukemia and Adult Brain Tumors?
Brain tumor I have a cousin who was diagnosed with leukemia at the age of 3 or 4 and has since been cured. Follow-up results show that he has not relapsed. Now, at 24 years old, he suddenly developed a brain tumor last year, which was surgically removed, but this year, another br...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Tina: Malignant brain tumors are indeed difficult to completely resect, so the chance of recurrence is significant. As for the relationship with blood cancer, if the patient was treated for acute lymphoblastic leukemia years ago and underwent radiation therapy to the brain to eli...[Read More] Is There a Link Between Childhood Leukemia and Adult Brain Tumors?
Understanding Stage IV Rectal Cancer Treatment Options and Prognosis
Colorectal cancer Hello, Doctor: My mother has stage IV rectal cancer, and recently three tumors measuring about 1 to 3 centimeters were found on her liver, with a CEA level of 45. Since she has already tried several medications, we decided to use Cetuximab, along with 5FU and CP...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. I agree with the approach taken by this physician. 2. I am not optimistic; I suggest you discuss the effectiveness of Oxaliplatin with your attending physician. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Sih-Rong, Oncology.[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Rectal Cancer Treatment Options and Prognosis
Managing Stage IV Rectal Cancer: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Stage IV rectal cancer Hello Doctor: My mother has stage IV rectal cancer, and recently three tumors approximately 1-3 cm in size were found on her liver. Her CEA level is 45. Since she has already used several medications, we decided to use Cetuximab, along with 5-FU and CPT-11 ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. I agree with this physician's approach. 2. I am not optimistic; I suggest you discuss the efficacy of Oxaliplatin with your attending physician. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Sih-Rong, Oncology.[Read More] Managing Stage IV Rectal Cancer: Treatment Options and Prognosis
Understanding Colorectal Cancer: A Grandfather's Journey and Treatment Options
My grandfather has been diagnosed with colorectal cancer? Hello, doctor. My grandfather (80 years old this year) was diagnosed with colon cancer last year. He underwent surgery in mainland China to remove a section of his intestine and received chemotherapy for 2-3 months. Howeve...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. It should be either metastasis or recurrence; confirmation is necessary, and a biopsy may be required for verification. However, most people accept the diagnosis and proceed with further treatment without confirmation. The prognosis is quite serious, and the current c...[Read More] Understanding Colorectal Cancer: A Grandfather's Journey and Treatment Options
Managing Cancer in Pregnant Patients: A Case Study and Treatment Options
Pregnant woman with terminal cancer? The patient is a breast cancer metastasis case, and the baby in her womb is currently 22 weeks old, appearing to be normal. The patient has previously insisted on keeping the baby without undergoing any treatment. Recently, the tumor on her ne...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. I also recommend returning to Taiwan for treatment. 2. During my time at National Taiwan University Hospital, I provided radiation therapy to a pregnant woman with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and her child was born healthy. Based on the medical experience at NTU Hospital,...[Read More] Managing Cancer in Pregnant Patients: A Case Study and Treatment Options
Am I Dying? Understanding Pain and Cancer Concerns
Suffocation Am I dying??? I have constant pain; either my hands hurt, my stomach hurts, my legs hurt, or my chest hurts. My whole body is in pain, but even after taking two Tylenol, the pain persists. I saw a doctor, and he said it’s not related to anything serious. During my mil...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Frustrated: Your symptoms sound like "psychosomatic disorder," which occurs when unresolved emotional conflicts manifest as physical symptoms. The various types of "pain" may signify a need for attention, concern from others, or serve as a cry for help. Le...[Read More] Am I Dying? Understanding Pain and Cancer Concerns
Exploring the Effectiveness of Immunotherapy for Cervical Cancer
Regarding immunotherapy for cervical cancer? Question 1: Is immunotherapy for cervical cancer currently effective for patients according to general gynecologic oncologists? My mother has recurrent cervical cancer that has metastasized to the lumbar spine, and the tumor has grown ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Any treatment for her condition has not shown significant effects. 2. Try to accept the journey ahead. 3. It is recommended to consider stronger pain management methods, such as spinal blocks or portable morphine for pain control. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Sih-Rong, Oncology.[Read More] Exploring the Effectiveness of Immunotherapy for Cervical Cancer
Are All Tumors Cancer? Understanding Liver Tumors and Their Risks
Is a tumor the same as cancer? Hello, doctor. My grandmother is over 80 years old and has poor health, suffering from severe anemia and cirrhosis due to hepatitis C. Recently, a check-up revealed a newly developed tumor in her liver. Her case has been referred to National Taiwan ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, 1. Tumors can be benign or malignant, and cancer refers specifically to malignant tumors. 2. The liver can also have benign tumors such as hemangiomas or malignant tumors such as liver cancer. 3. A one-month wait for an MRI is relatively long; it is advisable to discuss th...[Read More] Are All Tumors Cancer? Understanding Liver Tumors and Their Risks
Exploring Alternatives for Advanced Biliary Cancer Management
Cholangiocarcinoma In the case of advanced biliary cancer, where biliary obstruction necessitates the use of a drainage tube, patients may still experience significant discomfort. Are there alternative methods available? The patient is currently abroad; are there any reputable ho...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. While the use of a drainage tube in terminal stages may be uncomfortable, it is better than not using one. I personally cannot think of a better method. 2. Even the most authoritative hospitals cannot cure terminal cancer patients, so I recommend seeking a nearby medica...[Read More] Exploring Alternatives for Advanced Biliary Cancer Management
Could a Movable Lump Near the Anus Indicate Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer Hello Dr. Chen, I have a question: There is a movable lump near the anus, and there is no blood in the stool. Is it possible that this could be rectal cancer? (My mother is a rectal cancer patient.)
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: Based on your statement, I am unable to provide a judgment. I recommend consulting a colorectal surgeon for a diagnosis. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Could a Movable Lump Near the Anus Indicate Rectal Cancer?
Understanding Lung Adenocarcinoma Treatment: A Patient's Journey
Treatment of lung adenocarcinoma? Hello Doctor, my mother has been diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, and the hospital decided to perform surgery to remove the tumor. After removing a portion of her lung, the doctor also removed lymph nodes for cancer metastasis examination. The...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Procedural issues: The clinical stage is determined by pre-operative examination results, while the surgical stage can be assessed during the surgery. The final pathological stage is confirmed through post-operative histopathological examination. 2. The ability to u...[Read More] Understanding Lung Adenocarcinoma Treatment: A Patient's Journey
Essential Care Tips for Esophageal Cancer Patients and Nutrition Support
Issues Related to Esophageal Cancer Patients My father is an esophageal cancer patient, and he has experienced significant weight loss due to chemotherapy. I would like to inquire about the following matters: 1. Precautions for tracheostomy tubes 2. Precautions for gastrostomy tu...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Precautions for tracheostomy tubes: Regular disinfection, periodic replacement to avoid infection and dislodgment. 2. Precautions for gastrostomy tubes: Ensure proper fixation to prevent pulling and dislodgment. Before feeding, flush with a small amount of water to p...[Read More] Essential Care Tips for Esophageal Cancer Patients and Nutrition Support
Is a Hard Lump on the Testicle a Tumor? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Is this type of genital hard lump considered a tumor? My boyfriend is 16 years old and has recently been experiencing pain while urinating. He has also had difficulty sleeping due to genital pain. A doctor diagnosed him with urethritis, but despite treatment, his condition has no...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: Weak urine flow and difficulty urinating after standing for a long time are generally indicative of functional disorders. Some cases may involve urethral stricture, which requires medical evaluation and diagnostic tests for differential diagnosis. Sincerely, Dr. Chen Hsiu-...[Read More] Is a Hard Lump on the Testicle a Tumor? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns
Coping with Terminal Cancer: Effective Treatments and Support for Families
Terminal cancer I'm sorry to hear about your mother's condition. It's important to consult with her healthcare team to discuss her specific situation and the best course of action. Palliative care may be beneficial to manage symptoms and improve her quality of life...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Shan: If cancer has not been treated yet, even in its advanced stages, treatment can still help alleviate symptoms and extend life. However, it is essential to consult medical experts and not to fall for alternative remedies, unconventional therapies, or dietary treatments, as th...[Read More] Coping with Terminal Cancer: Effective Treatments and Support for Families
Treatment Options for Lymphoma in Patients with Metastatic Cancer
Lymphoma My mother-in-law has a history of colorectal cancer and vaginal cancer, which has now metastasized to lymph node cancer located in the lower abdomen and the lymph nodes near the blood vessels behind the intestines. Due to the proximity of the cancer to the kidneys, she i...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. The reasons for being unable to undergo radiation therapy may include: 1. Poor physical condition. 2. The extent of the disease is too large. However, if the issue is merely proximity to the kidneys, advanced techniques such as Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMR...[Read More] Treatment Options for Lymphoma in Patients with Metastatic Cancer
Understanding Skin Cancer Staging and Prognosis: Key Insights
Skin cancer Hello, about a month ago, I developed a tumor on my nose, which soon spread to the area around my lips. It has now metastasized to my left shoulder, where there are 3 to 4 tumors near my lips and on my left shoulder. Some of them are painful when pressed. If this is c...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
It is difficult to determine the nature of your skin lesion based on your description. Please seek medical attention as soon as possible; it may be necessary to excise a sample for pathological examination to determine if it is cancerous.[Read More] Understanding Skin Cancer Staging and Prognosis: Key Insights
Tragic Chemotherapy Experience: A Family's Heartbreaking Journey
About cancer chemotherapy? On November 2, 2005, my wife was admitted to the Hematology and Oncology Department of Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital for chemotherapy due to cancer. The attending physician was Dr. Tang Yeh. My wife passed away on November 21, 2005. During the ...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Teacher: Due to the unique constitution of certain patients, high-dose continuous infusion of 5-FU chemotherapy can interfere with liver detoxification functions, leading to hepatic encephalopathy that affects central nervous system function. The treatment indeed involves the use...[Read More] Tragic Chemotherapy Experience: A Family's Heartbreaking Journey