Understanding Groin and Pubic Symphysis Masses: Possible Lymphoma?
Inguinal and pubic symphysis mass? I felt a 0.5x0.5 cm mass in my right groin that moves when pressed and is painful. Additionally, there is a 2x1 cm mass in the perineal area above the pubic symphysis that is also painful when pressed. Could this be a lymphatic tumor?
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your concern requires a physical examination for proper assessment, and it is difficult to address this issue online. If there are any suspicions, a biopsy will be performed for further evaluation. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Groin and Pubic Symphysis Masses: Possible Lymphoma?
Understanding Movable Tumors on the Jaw and Cheek: What You Need to Know
There are several lumps on the chin and face? There are three movable lumps on the left cheek and the bottom of the chin, each approximately 1 cm in size. They have been present for 2 to 3 years. They tend to enlarge when there are sores in the mouth and return to their original ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Everyone has salivary glands, from the "parotid glands" located on both sides of the cheeks, to the paired "submandibular glands" and "sublingual glands" under the chin. In my outpatient clinic, I often encounter individuals who mistake their ...[Read More] Understanding Movable Tumors on the Jaw and Cheek: What You Need to Know
Understanding Lymph Node Enlargement in Head and Neck Cancer Metastasis
Lymphatic metastasis Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if the symptoms and appearance of lymphadenopathy caused by head and neck cancers metastasizing to the lymph nodes are similar to those caused by lymphoma, or if there are differences. Additionally, if gastrointestinal cance...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The lymphatic system, like our blood, circulates throughout the body. Therefore, cancer from any part of the body can metastasize to lymph nodes anywhere. This is true for head and neck cancers, lymphomas, and even gastrointestinal cancers. They all appear similar, and it ...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Enlargement in Head and Neck Cancer Metastasis
Understanding Lymph Nodes in the Neck: When to Worry?
Cervical lymph nodes Hello, doctor. There is a lymph node located below my left ear in the neck that has been present since childhood. Additionally, there are two lymph nodes in the left side of my neck that have also existed for a long time. These three lymph nodes sometimes enl...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: When experiencing lymphadenopathy, most people worry and ask if it is "lymphoma" or a benign "inflammatory response" or "lymphoid hyperplasia." The clinical differentiation methods are as follows: 1. Cancer typically grows rapidly, often doubl...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Nodes in the Neck: When to Worry?
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Multiple palpable lymph nodes? Hello Dr. Chen, I can feel 2 to 3 lymph nodes, each about 1 cm in size, in my neck, just below my chin, which have been present for almost a month. The one under my chin was discovered later. On both sides of my groin (the left side is slightly lar...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: After reviewing the first part of your description, it actually does not resemble the typical presentation of a true lymphoma patient that we usually encounter in our specialty (your symptoms of fever and sweating do not seem to fit). Regarding the numerous small lymph nod...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Understanding Venclexta Coverage and Costs for Cancer Patients in Taiwan
Wanke medication Dr. Chen! I have undergone chemotherapy abroad and completed two autologous stem cell transplants. I am currently receiving injections of Venclexta (2.4 mg every two weeks) and taking Revlimid (10 mg) as part of my follow-up treatment. I plan to return to Taiwan ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mrs. Chen / 66 / 11. You have not provided medical information, so I cannot determine the eligibility for National Health Insurance coverage. Below are the National Health Insurance coverage regulations: 9.28. Bortezomib (e.g., Velcade for Injection): (96/6/1, 98/2/1, 99/3/1, 99...[Read More] Understanding Venclexta Coverage and Costs for Cancer Patients in Taiwan
Should You See an Oncologist for a Growing Lump Behind Your Ear?
There is a lump behind the ear? About six months to a year ago, I noticed a lump behind my ear. Since it wasn't painful, I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, I found that it has grown larger. I visited an ENT clinic, and they said it was granulation tissue. Howe...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, a neck mass is often indicative of lymph nodes and may be due to infection, head and neck tumors, or lymphoma. It is recommended to first visit a major hospital's otolaryngology department for an endoscopic examination to confirm and differentiate the diagnosis. Wishi...[Read More] Should You See an Oncologist for a Growing Lump Behind Your Ear?
Understanding Lumps in the Jaw: When to Seek Medical Attention
There is a lump on the right lower jaw? Hello doctor, a few days ago I suddenly felt pain in the lower right jaw area. At first, I thought it was a toothache, but then I felt a small movable lump on my face that is also a bit painful. It feels very much like lymphatic pain. Since...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Ms. Socks, Both your face and neck have lymphadenopathy. The causes of lymph node enlargement are diverse, and most of the reasons are not easily identifiable, which is why it is referred to as non-specific lymphadenopathy. If the lymphadenopathy is caused by the invasion o...[Read More] Understanding Lumps in the Jaw: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Chemotherapy Side Effects and the Role of Saline Solution
Before and after chemotherapy with physiological saline..? Hello, doctor. I have been diagnosed with follicular lymphoma and have started my first chemotherapy treatment. During the first session, I received three bags of medication. One bag was what I believe to be the so-called...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Elsa: It is best to increase fluid intake before and after the first chemotherapy session for lymphoma, whether it be saline solution or glucose water. If you still feel unwell a week after the treatment, it is not due to the medication not being eliminated, but rather the ongoin...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy Side Effects and the Role of Saline Solution
Managing Confusion and Fatigue After Lymphoma Chemotherapy
Confusion after chemotherapy for lymphoma? Hello Dr. Chen: My father, who is 76 years old, has been diagnosed with lymphoma. After his third round of chemotherapy, he has been experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness, confusion, pain, incontinence, and constipation. He also has ...
Dr. Chen Junyi Reply:
The most likely cause of altered mental status after chemotherapy is infection, as chemotherapy can lead to immunosuppression, particularly in the elderly. However, the patient exhibits increased appetite, which raises the possibility that steroids in the chemotherapy regimen may...[Read More] Managing Confusion and Fatigue After Lymphoma Chemotherapy
Should I Consult an ENT Specialist for Neck Lymph Node Pathology?
Is it correct to perform pathological biopsies of cervical lymph nodes in thoracic surgery? Hello, doctor. Two months ago, I experienced discomfort and pain in my lower abdomen, which led me to visit a gastroenterology clinic for examination. Due to some abnormalities, I was refe...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Elsa: Currently, there are three methods that can be adopted: the first is the lymph node biopsy from the supraclavicular lymph nodes, which should be manageable by the thoracic surgeon; the second involves a needle biopsy of the retroperitoneal mass guided by a radiologist using...[Read More] Should I Consult an ENT Specialist for Neck Lymph Node Pathology?
Soft Lump on Inner Thigh: Tumor or Lymphoma? Which Specialist to See?
There is a suspected tumor or lymphoma on the inner thigh? I have a soft lump on the inner side of my thigh that is about 3-5 centimeters in size. It moves when pressed but does not hurt. I'm unsure if it could be a tumor or lymphoma. I would like to make an appointment for ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Tomomi / 29 / The likelihood of a benign tumor is higher. I recommend seeing a general surgeon first, as the hematology-oncology and radiation oncology specialists will not perform surgery to remove it for testing, nor will they do a biopsy. Therefore, it is advisable to consult ...[Read More] Soft Lump on Inner Thigh: Tumor or Lymphoma? Which Specialist to See?
Understanding Follow-Up Treatments for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Post-treatment for lymphoma? Dr. Fan, a family member has been diagnosed with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and is currently undergoing the first phase of treatment, which involves chemotherapy combined with rituximab. From the information provided in the rituximab medication gui...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Dear Hudson: The continuous treatment with rituximab is applicable for low-grade lymphomas, but it is not necessary for diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). For DLBCL, a combination of chemotherapy and six cycles of rituximab achieves a high cure rate. Your doctor is correct, s...[Read More] Understanding Follow-Up Treatments for Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Are They a Sign of Cancer?
Lymphatic issues 1. I have a slender lymph node on the left side of my neck and under both armpits, approximately 2.5 centimeters in length. It moves when pressed and is not painful. What could this be? Is it possible that it is cancer? 2. If I have blood drawn, will it be able...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Silly old man: Is 31 considered old? As you mentioned, the biggest fears are lymphoma or HIV, so please go to the hospital for a consultation, get a blood test, and have a biopsy done.[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Issues: Are They a Sign of Cancer?
Understanding Neck and Knee Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention
There is a lump in the neck and popliteal region? A few months ago, I noticed a lump on my neck. I went to see a doctor, but they said it was nothing to worry about, so I didn't pay much attention to it. Recently, I found another lump in the area of my axilla that is about a...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
DEAR PIX: It could be a benign lymphadenitis, which wouldn't be a concern. However, it might also be malignant lymphoma, which would be serious. Please consult with a doctor at a major hospital's hematology-oncology department to discuss whether a biopsy is necessary. W...[Read More] Understanding Neck and Knee Lumps: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Axillary lump Hello doctor, I recently noticed a hard lump under my armpit that feels firm to the touch (the lump is located slightly lower than the nipple). It doesn't hurt much when pressed. Could you please tell me what this might indicate? Thank you for your response.
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Wang: The situation you described raises concerns about malignant lymphoma, so please seek treatment at the hematology-oncology outpatient clinic as soon as possible. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps Under the Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Leukemia: Stages, Causes, and Treatment Options Explained
Leukemia Hello Doctor: My girlfriend has leukemia, and she mentioned that she has had it for many years. She told me that there are a total of four stages, and she is currently in stage three. Is this due to genetic factors, or what other reasons might contribute to it? Besides b...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. Causes: The majority of leukemia cases have unclear origins, while a small number can be attributed to specific factors: a. Radiation exposure, such as previous radiation therapy or exposure to radiation. b. Chemical agents, including certain chemotherapy drugs and sub...[Read More] Understanding Leukemia: Stages, Causes, and Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Symptoms: Possible Conditions Behind Limb Weakness and Lymph Node Swelling
Question Hello Doctor, since February 20th, I have suddenly experienced frequent weakness or soreness and numbness in my limbs. I have undergone MRI scans of my neck and lower back, a CT scan of my brain, and even an electromyography, all of which showed no issues. Additionally, ...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Frances: If there is persistent lymphadenopathy, considerations include 1. tumors, such as lymphoma or nasopharyngeal carcinoma; 2. infections, such as tuberculosis or HIV; 3. autoimmune diseases. Based on what you described, a diagnosis cannot be made immediately. It is recommen...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms: Possible Conditions Behind Limb Weakness and Lymph Node Swelling
Are Your Kidneys at Risk After Chemotherapy for Lymphoma?
Is there a problem with the kidneys? You are currently in the third stage of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) and have completed the seventh cycle of chemotherapy (CHOP). Your recent blood test shows a creatinine level of 0.5 mg/dL and an estimated glomerular filtration rate...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Hello: The information you provided indicates that kidney function is still normal. If there are significant bubbles in the urine, it may be worth checking for proteinuria. Thank you![Read More] Are Your Kidneys at Risk After Chemotherapy for Lymphoma?
Should ALCL Stage III Patients Consider Autologous Transplant?
Is autologous stem cell transplantation necessary for stage III anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL)? A patient with stage III Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (ALCL) has undergone their fifth cycle of CHOP chemotherapy. The treatment plan mentioned by the physician includes autol...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Currently, there is a lack of large-scale clinical studies providing us with strong evidence for a universally satisfactory answer to this question. To be frank, in the case of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), if the anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) is positive, the prognos...[Read More] Should ALCL Stage III Patients Consider Autologous Transplant?