Understanding White Blood Cell Counts and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
White blood cell testing issues Recent blood test results show a white blood cell count of 6,900 (normal range: 3,600-11,200), hemoglobin (HB) of 15.9 (normal range: 13.7-17), erythrocyte distribution width (EDW) of 13.0 (normal range: 11.7-15), platelet count of 260 (normal rang...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
The white blood cell count is within the normal range according to the instrument's interpretation, indicating that it is normal and does not require continuous monitoring. The lymph nodes have shown no changes over the past year, suggesting a higher likelihood of being beni...[Read More] Understanding White Blood Cell Counts and Lymph Node Concerns in Oncology
Understanding Lymph Node Biopsy in Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Treatment
Questions about lymph node biopsy? Hello Dr. Chen, I was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma in mid-December this year. The tumor is located in the lower inner quadrant of the right breast, approximately at the 3:30 position, 4 cm from the nipple. The ultrasound estimated th...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, I'm 27 years old female. 1. Currently, I have undergone ultrasound-guided core needle biopsy and mammography. I will also have a bone scan and CT scan later. I would like to ask about the accuracy of these tests in determining whether there is an infection in the ly...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Biopsy in Invasive Ductal Carcinoma Treatment
Understanding Recurrence in Early Stage Breast Cancer: Key Insights and Concerns
Breast cancer stage I relapsed one year after treatment without chemotherapy? Hello, Doctor! I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2021 and underwent a right mastectomy with reconstruction. Post-surgery, it was found that there was a 0.1 cm invasive cancer in the lymph n...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Evans, 43 years old, female. Due to the lack of personal insurance, the medical burden is really heavy. A: It is possible to choose treatment options covered by the National Health Insurance, but the general public tends to want to follow the doctor's advice if they can affo...[Read More] Understanding Recurrence in Early Stage Breast Cancer: Key Insights and Concerns
Understanding PET Scan Results for Lung Cancer: A Guide for Patients
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Hello, Director. Please help me review my mother's PET scan report; I don't understand it. Thank you. **PET Scan Report:** **Indication:** The 49-year-old woman is diagnosed with right middle lung cancer, stage IA1 (pT1aNx), status p...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Home / 48 years old / Female 0: It should be based on the explanation from her attending physician. 1. There were mildly increased FDG uptake in the right middle lung (SUVmax: 1.1) and right chest wall (SUVmax: ~1.7), probably post-operative changes. There is a post-operative rea...[Read More] Understanding PET Scan Results for Lung Cancer: A Guide for Patients
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Concerns
Lymphadenopathy Consultation Hello, Dr. Hu. This year, I discovered a lump behind my ear. Six months ago, I visited an ENT specialist, and the doctor noted that it felt soft and movable. A laryngoscopy showed no abnormalities, so I was prescribed anti-inflammatory medication for ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
If there are concerns or suspicions of a malignant tumor, one may consider undergoing a surgical lymph node biopsy at a general surgery or otolaryngology department. Non-surgical options include computed tomography (CT) scans or self-paid whole-body positron emission tomography (...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Concerns
Understanding Armpit Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice and Next Steps
Axillary lump In July, I discovered a lump in my armpit. It is painless, not visible externally, and I feel no discomfort, but it can be slightly moved. An ultrasound examination by a breast surgeon revealed a breast cyst, with no lymph node enlargement. The doctor advised monito...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. Which department should I consult? A: General Surgery or Breast Surgery. 2. Why did the breast surgeon not detect the lump, only stating that the lymph nodes are not enlarged? A: Just because the breast surgeon did not see it in July does not mean it won't be visible fr...[Read More] Understanding Armpit Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice and Next Steps
Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Risks, Treatments, and Prognosis
Breast cancer inquiry? Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you a question regarding my mother, who is currently 61 years old. She was recently diagnosed with breast cancer (Luminal B type, grade 2) and has just undergone a partial mastectomy and sentinel lymph node biopsy (4 nodes)...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, 1. I would like to ask the doctor if the risk of recurrence for my mother is high. Using this algorithm, IHC4 = 32 > 30 indicates high risk, with ER = 90, PR = 90, Her2 = 1, and Ki67 = 30 for calculating the IHC4 score. 2. Since the doctor recommends both chemotherap...[Read More] Understanding Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Risks, Treatments, and Prognosis
Post-Breast Cancer Treatment: The Role of Menopause-Inducing Injections
Post-breast cancer treatment - menopausal injection? Hello Doctor: ER: 95% PR: 95% HER2: 0 Ki-67: 5% Tumor size: 1.4 cm, sentinel lymph nodes negative. Surgery was completed in mid-September, and radiation therapy started in mid-October, with no chemotherapy. When the breast surg...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: First of all, taking only Tamoxifen is not enough! Secondly, it is quite unusual not to undergo adjuvant chemotherapy after surgery; theoretically, it should be done. However, this may be your personal choice, which I respect. That's all. Thank you.[Read More] Post-Breast Cancer Treatment: The Role of Menopause-Inducing Injections
Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a lump in the groin area? Hello Dr. Chen: At the end of last year, I discovered a small hard lump above the inner thigh on the right side. It was painless and resembled a pus-filled cyst, but I couldn't squeeze anything out. There was a small wound that turned black...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Zhen / 50 years old / Female 1. Could it be lymph nodes? Lymphoma? A: Redness, swelling, heat, and pain are signs of an inflammatory response, but it's uncertain whether it's a tumor, lymph nodes, or a sebaceous cyst. 2. Should I self-monitor first? A: It is rec...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Castleman Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Resources in Taiwan
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, I previously inquired about my blood test results indicating a high probability of lymphoma. The specimen report has now come back stating that it is Castleman disease. I understand that this is a rare condition, and although it is not cancer, it may...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ajie / 52 years old / Male 1. Is a biopsy result definitive? A: Of course, for a few diseases, most major hospital pathologists have a review system in place. The primary diagnosing physician will have other physicians in the department review the case before finalizing the re...[Read More] Understanding Castleman Disease: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Resources in Taiwan
Is Genetic Testing Necessary for Stage 1 Breast Cancer Patients?
Is genetic testing necessary for stage I breast cancer? Hello Doctor: I have questions regarding the follow-up treatment for breast cancer. The pathology report shows Ki-67: 5%, ER: positive 95%, PR: positive 95%, HER-2: negative. I have undergone a partial mastectomy and sentine...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The standard treatment for breast cancer is fully covered by health insurance. For T1CN0M0 stage I, after surgery, six cycles of FEC (a second-generation chemotherapy regimen) are administered, which is free of charge. Following that, radiation therapy and hormonal therapy...[Read More] Is Genetic Testing Necessary for Stage 1 Breast Cancer Patients?
Understanding Lumps in Lymph Nodes: Could It Be a Tumor?
Lymphadenopathy with a mass? About two weeks ago, I developed a hard lump on the inner thigh. Initially, it was small and soft, but now it has grown larger and harder, causing pain when walking or pressing on it. I consulted a general surgeon, and they diagnosed it as lymphadenit...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yuri / 19 years old / Female, is it possible that this is a tumor? A: 1. Of course, it is impossible to completely rule out the possibility of malignancy through online consultation. 2. Diagnosing cancer may require a period of observation, so continuous monitoring is importan...[Read More] Understanding Lumps in Lymph Nodes: Could It Be a Tumor?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Evaluating Lymphadenopathy and Anemia Risks
Blood Test Report Recently, I have noticed lymphadenopathy and splenomegaly in my neck, armpits, and groin (on both sides), particularly in the armpit, which is about the size of a chicken egg. It is painless, movable, and has a smooth surface, not very hard but somewhat elastic....
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ajie / 52 years old / Male 1. My hematologist directly recommended a biopsy. A: His suggestion is quite reasonable. 2. This back-and-forth has taken almost a month; why not start medication to address the inflammation first? Perhaps the lymphadenopathy would resolve. A: Diagn...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Evaluating Lymphadenopathy and Anemia Risks
Understanding Oral Cancer: Risks, Recurrence, and Survival Rates
Oral cancer issues? Hello Doctor, my sister has had a mucosal tear in her left cheek since the beginning of this year that hasn't healed. By July, it formed a protruding hard lump that continued to grow towards her lip. In August, she visited an oral surgeon for a biopsy, wh...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous / 45 years old / Female 1. Will there be a recurrence after the doctor performs surgery? A: Yes, there is a possibility of recurrence. The likelihood of recurrence is related to whether the surgeon was able to achieve clear margins and the safety distance. If the exci...[Read More] Understanding Oral Cancer: Risks, Recurrence, and Survival Rates
Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Axillary lymphadenopathy with pain and bleeding? Hello, Doctor: This week, I have been experiencing unexplained swelling and pain in my left armpit. Initially, there was no discoloration, but it was painful to the touch and felt soft. The pain has affected my sleep, as I wake up ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Wenwen / 21 years old / Male 1. This is my first time experiencing a large, red, swollen, and painful area. Should I see a doctor? A: 1.1 Redness, swelling, heat, and pain are symptoms of inflammation. A physician can evaluate your condition and determine whether antibiotics, p...[Read More] Understanding Swollen and Painful Lymph Nodes: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Risks
Abnormal blood test results? Two days ago, the clinic conducted a blood test report for a 40-year-old male. The results are as follows: WBC 5900 /µL, Neutrophil 44.7%, Lymphocyte 46.6% (elevated, normal range 18-45), Monocyte 6.5%, Eosinophil 1.3%, Basophil 0.9%, RBC 5.42 M/µL, H...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Light / 41 years old / Male. Could this be a precursor to blood cancer or lymphoma? A: 1. No 2. It could be caused by inflammation 3. Based on the blood test results, you currently do not have blood cancer, and lymphoma cannot be diagnosed solely through a blood test. Wishing you...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results: Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Risks
Understanding Blood Test Results: High Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Concerns
Blood test? The blood test report from the clinic two days ago shows the following results for a 40-year-old male: - WBC: 5900 /µL - Neutrophil: 44.7% - Lymphocyte: 46.6% (elevated, normal range: 18-45%) - Monocyte: 6.5% - Eosinophil: 1.3% - Basophil: 0.9% - RBC: 5.42 M/µL - He...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: This does not necessarily indicate lymphoma; I do not have any abnormal findings in this report. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: High Lymphocyte Levels and Cancer Concerns
Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Key Questions and Insights
Lymphatic issues Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about lymphatic issues: 1. Self-reported: 1. On May 25, 2022, I discovered a movable, non-painful, neither soft nor hard mass on the right side of my neck. 2. On May 25, 2022, I found a movable, non-painful, neither so...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Chris / 37 years old / Male 1. Is the size of the lymph nodes observed through ultrasound within the normal range? Can the measurements vary between different physicians? A: Generally, lymph nodes larger than 1 cm require further evaluation or biopsy, while those under 1 cm ca...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Key Questions and Insights
Post-Surgery Weakness in Cholangiocarcinoma: Is Immediate Chemotherapy Advisable?
After surgery for bile duct cancer, if the patient is experiencing weakness, should adjuvant chemotherapy be initiated immediately? Hello, doctor. My mother was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma a month ago after being admitted to the emergency department for abdominal pain. She ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Rita, 47 years old, female 1. Visiting medical centers such as Shin Kong Hospital, National Taiwan University Hospital, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Shuang Ho Hospital, Tri-Service General Hospital, and Mackay Memorial Hospital. 2. Hematology-Oncology department speciali...[Read More] Post-Surgery Weakness in Cholangiocarcinoma: Is Immediate Chemotherapy Advisable?
Understanding Lymph Node Issues After COVID-19: Key Concerns and Insights
Lymph node-related issues? Hello Dr. Chen, I have the following questions I would like to consult with you. Since I was diagnosed with COVID-19 at the end of April, I have frequently noticed swollen lymph nodes in the neck area, which has made me worried about potential underlyi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hui / 31 years old / Female 1. The doctor mentioned that there is a lymph node approximately 2.3 cm in size under my left armpit that needs to be monitored. Since I have not received any vaccinations, the doctor suggested monitoring it for six months. Should I consider getting i...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues After COVID-19: Key Concerns and Insights