Could Intermittent Proteinuria Indicate Multiple Myeloma Risk?
Is intermittent proteinuria possible in multiple myeloma? Hello, I am currently 19 years old and have been experiencing intermittent proteinuria for the past four years, during which I have undergone regular monitoring (at laboratories and large hospitals). My kidney function and...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Mr. Cai, Thank you for your letter. Here are my responses: 1. Regarding your inquiry about the intermittent presence of protein in your urine and its possible relation to multiple myeloma, this is unlikely. The hallmark of multiple myeloma is persistent proteinuria. The p...[Read More] Could Intermittent Proteinuria Indicate Multiple Myeloma Risk?
Understanding High-Risk Groups for Multiple Myeloma: Prevention and Management
Regarding high-risk groups for multiple myeloma? Hello Director Lai, Last year, my father was informed that he is in a high-risk group for multiple myeloma, which was discovered through blood test results. The doctor advised that he should have blood tests every three months to ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Mr. Shen: In response to your inquiry regarding your father's high-risk status for multiple myeloma, I would like to provide the following information: 1. It is generally recognized that risk factors for multiple myeloma include: age, gender (male > female), race (Black...[Read More] Understanding High-Risk Groups for Multiple Myeloma: Prevention and Management
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 Symptoms After Grandpa's Fall: A Focus on Tumor Concerns
After Grandpa fell, he exhibited many symptoms? A few weeks ago, my grandfather fell and has been unable to bathe himself. He has also become a bit forgetful and has experienced chest pain. Later, he underwent blood tests, which showed an Immunoglobulin G level of 5870.00 mg/dL, ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your grandfather's IgG levels are elevated, which could indicate "multiple myeloma." However, since you have this lab report, the ordering physician likely has a suspicion. It would be best to follow the recommendations of the physician who ordered the tests...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Grandpa's Fall: A Focus on Tumor Concerns
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
Managing Peripheral Neuropathy After Multiple Myeloma Treatment: Tips and Insights
Multiple Myeloma Dear Dr. Fan: My mother is 56 years old and has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. She initially received Velcade treatment followed by autologous stem cell transplantation. It has been three months since the transplant, but she is experiencing numbness in her...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Hello, Mr. Hsieh. Neuropathy caused by Vinca alkaloids is generally treated with B vitamins, but the effectiveness is limited. Fortunately, 85% of patients are able to recover, with 50% of patients recovering within 100 days, while the other half may require a longer time. Thank ...[Read More] Managing Peripheral Neuropathy After Multiple Myeloma Treatment: Tips and Insights
Understanding Insurance Coverage for Venclexta in Multiple Myeloma Treatment
The health insurance coverage for the treatment of multiple myeloma with Venclexta? Doctor, I heard that Vanco treatment is covered by health insurance, but it must be after the failure of first-line treatment to qualify for coverage. If Vanco treatment is used as the first-line ...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Lin: If Vanco is used as the first-line treatment, regardless of whether it continues to be effective or becomes ineffective, health insurance will not cover it.[Read More] Understanding Insurance Coverage for Venclexta in Multiple Myeloma Treatment
Cost of Venclexta Treatment for Multiple Myeloma in Kaohsiung Hospitals
The cost of treatment for multiple myeloma can vary significantly depending on the specific therapies used, the healthcare facility, and the patient's individual circumstances. Generally, treatment options may include chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and stem c...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Lin: One injection costs about 60,000 New Taiwan Dollars, and it should be available at Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, and Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. However, as long as the criteria for previous treatment failure are met, the N...[Read More] Cost of Venclexta Treatment for Multiple Myeloma in Kaohsiung Hospitals
Is Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Necessary After Venclexta for Myeloma?
In multiple myeloma, is autologous stem cell transplantation still necessary after using Velcade? Hello Doctor: My mother is 55 years old and has been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. After three cycles of treatment with Velcade, her hemoglobin has improved to 9.5 and her immunog...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Hsieh: If the immunoglobulin level you mentioned dropping to 4200 refers to the abnormal immunoglobulin, then this level may not be sufficient for autologous stem cell transplantation. It is necessary to wait until the abnormal cells in the bone marrow are reduced to a certai...[Read More] Is Autologous Stem Cell Transplant Necessary After Venclexta for Myeloma?
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Concerns on Cancer Markers and Treatment Options
Multiple Myeloma and Venclexta Treatment Hello Doctor: My mother previously underwent a bone marrow biopsy, which revealed multiple myeloma with cancer markers exceeding 10,000. I have a few questions: 1. Are cancer markers standardized, and is this level considered very serious?...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Hsieh: 1. Different types of cancer have their specific tumor markers. Immunoglobulins can be used to assess the condition of multiple myeloma, and values in the tens of thousands indicate a severe situation. 2. Combining Venclexta with other medications in the first...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Concerns on Cancer Markers and Treatment Options
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Concerns About Bone Marrow Testing
Regarding multiple myeloma and bone marrow aspiration issues? Hello Doctor: My mother is 55 years old. She has not recovered from a spinal injury due to a fall, and blood tests revealed signs of ischemia. She was then referred to a hematologist, and blood tests indicated a suspic...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Hsieh: If blood tests indicate a suspicion of multiple myeloma, a bone marrow biopsy is necessary for a definitive diagnosis. Typically, a needle is inserted into one of the areas above the ischium on both sides of the hips. However, this is not a procedure for extracting cer...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Concerns About Bone Marrow Testing
Understanding Osteoclastoma: Is It a Malignant Tumor?
What is an osteoclastoma? Hello Dr. Chen: I apologize for bothering you. I have a female friend who is only 28 years old. Last year, she had a tumor in the area of her left ulna and underwent resection surgery at Kaohsiung Medical University and I-Shou University Hospital. Howeve...
Dr. Chen Junyi Reply:
Giant cell tumor of bone (GCT) is a lytic tumor primarily composed of mononuclear cells and multinucleated giant cells, classified as a primary bone tumor that lies between malignant and benign. It is also known as osteoclastoma. It is not to be confused with multiple myeloma or ...[Read More] Understanding Osteoclastoma: Is It a Malignant Tumor?
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Symptoms, Treatments, and Support Options
Issues related to multiple myeloma? Hello, Doctor: I apologize for taking up your time! My mother was diagnosed with multiple myeloma (stage II) four years ago. After undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy, along with diligent care, her condition has remained relatively st...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Zhang: The recurrence and progression of multiple myeloma should be determined by abnormal immunoglobulin levels from blood tests, X-ray imaging of the bones, and bone marrow aspiration and biopsy. As far as I know, the new drug Velcade must be purchased out-of-pocket, but a ...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Symptoms, Treatments, and Support Options
The Significance of Elevated IgG Levels in Brain Tumor Diagnosis
What is the significance of IgG levels in relation to brain tumors? Dear Doctor, the blood test report shows that the IgG level significantly exceeds the standard range (690-1400 mg/dl). What is the significance of this test result in relation to the occurrence of a brain tumor (...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: The letter did not specify how high the IgG levels are, and without other clinical manifestations and examinations, it is difficult to make a recommendation. If individuals have any concerns, they should seek medical consultation for further evaluation and testing. IgG is ...[Read More] The Significance of Elevated IgG Levels in Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Understanding Bone Cancer: Causes, Myths, and Genetic Risks
Grandfather's death Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask a few questions and I hope you can forgive me for taking up your time. I heard from my dad that my grandfather was injured from a bicycle accident and did not see a doctor. Eventually, he developed bone cancer (which see...
Dr. Fan Sheng Reply:
Mr. Zhao: Falling off a bicycle should not be related to bone cancer. It is possible that grandpa has another type of cancer that has metastasized to the bones, right? Bone cancer is also not related to leukocytosis. Furthermore, it is not hereditary. Please rest assured! Sincere...[Read More] Understanding Bone Cancer: Causes, Myths, and Genetic Risks
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Risks and Treatment Options Explained
Multiple Myeloma What is multiple myeloma? What are its dangers? What treatment options are available? <Stage III> Thank you!
Dr. Yang Youhua Reply:
Multiple myeloma is a malignancy characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of plasma cells in the bone marrow, leading to the excessive production of monoclonal immunoglobulin. Cancer cells secrete cytokines that stimulate osteoclasts, resulting in bone pain, multiple fract...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Risks and Treatment Options Explained