Understanding Bilirubin Levels in Beta-Thalassemia: Causes and Concerns
Bilirubin in Mediterranean Anemia Hello, Doctor: I have been diagnosed with Beta-thalassemia. In previous follow-ups, my hemoglobin levels were around 9.3 g/dL, red blood cell count was 4.5 M/uL, total bilirubin was approximately 6.0 mg/dL, and direct bilirubin was 0.4 mg/dL. In ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: 1. Yes, both anemia and hemolysis have worsened. However, this congenital thalassemia should not change with aging, so there must be something that has happened recently. Have you had a cold? Taken medications indiscriminately? Used traditional Chinese medicine? Consumed...[Read More] Understanding Bilirubin Levels in Beta-Thalassemia: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: Common Questions and Answers
Cervical lymphatic issues Dear Dr. Chen, It's me again, and I apologize for bothering you. I've always been very anxious about lymph nodes, and this shadow of fear has lingered. I often check my body for lymph nodes. Aside from the few I consulted you about previously,...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
It's me again, the worried one. / 41 years old 1.1. The lymph nodes I can feel, could they be inflamed due to my constant rubbing against surrounding tissues? A: It's uncertain whether there are lymph nodes, but they are definitely inflamed from your constant poking....[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Concerns: Common Questions and Answers
Understanding Adenomas: Risks, Treatment Options, and Recommendations for Seniors
Skin adenoma My mother is 87 years old. On August 22 of this year, she told me that she has a lump on her buttocks (she mentioned it has been there for several years, is painless and itchless, round, and smaller than a one-cent coin) that has broken the skin, with a ring of small...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ahong / 63 years old / 1. What is an adenoma (there is no clear information online)? A: If it is already classified as malignant, it is adenocarcinoma. Adenocarcinoma of the skin is relatively rare and unique; it must be confirmed by pathology after biopsy or complete excision to...[Read More] Understanding Adenomas: Risks, Treatment Options, and Recommendations for Seniors
Understanding Hard Lumps in the Groin Area: Causes and When to Seek Help
There is a lump in the groin area? Hello, doctor. Recently, I have felt a hard lump (about the size of a one-dollar coin) at the junction of my scrotum and groin when using the restroom or showering. It is located under the skin, and there is no discoloration; it only appears sli...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be a subcutaneous lipoma or another benign tissue; if you're concerned, you can see a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Hard Lumps in the Groin Area: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Supportive Care in Advanced Cancer Treatment
Supportive therapy Hello, my mother was diagnosed with stage IV ampullary cancer after going to the hospital for diarrhea in March of this year. She has been undergoing chemotherapy since May 10 and has completed four cycles so far. During this time, she experienced slight discom...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Supportive care refers to symptom management or palliative care, indicating that the patient's condition has deteriorated and is no longer suitable for other aggressive treatments (such as the current chemotherapy).[Read More] Understanding Supportive Care in Advanced Cancer Treatment
Is It Safe to Have Breast Cancer Surgery and Radiation Therapy at Different Hospitals?
Surgery and Radiation Therapy for Breast Cancer (Ductal Carcinoma In Situ) I am a breast cancer (in situ) patient living in Taitung. I would like to undergo a lumpectomy at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, and then have radiation therapy at Taitung Christian Hospital. Do yo...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yü / 47 years old / female. It is acceptable that during the surgery, transferring to another hospital is not recommended for radiation therapy. This means that the localization design and radiation treatment should be done at the same hospital, but it is not necessary to remain ...[Read More] Is It Safe to Have Breast Cancer Surgery and Radiation Therapy at Different Hospitals?
Understanding Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Treatment and Prognosis
Stage IV lung adenocarcinoma Hello, my mother has been diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma. The discharge summary states: 1. Malignant lung tumor (right-sided infiltrating adenocarcinoma); 2. Mediastinal lymph node metastasis; 3. Multiple bone metastases (bilateral iliac ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Huang / 33 years old / Male 1. My mom hasn't experienced significant side effects so far; she only had a few small red spots on her hand, which went away afterward. She seems just like her usual self, completely unlike someone with cancer! Is this a good sign? Does it i...[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Treatment and Prognosis
Impact of Grilled Foods on Chemotherapy: What Patients Should Know
Dietary Issues Hello Doctor: My father is currently undergoing chemotherapy, and the doctor has advised against consuming fried, deep-fried, or grilled foods. However, during a recent outing, he inadvertently ate grilled food. Will this affect his treatment and its effectiveness?
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: These small amounts of grilled food are harmless for any chemotherapy. Thank you.[Read More] Impact of Grilled Foods on Chemotherapy: What Patients Should Know
Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Concerns About Cancer Recurrence and Treatment Options
Lymphadenopathy raises concerns about cancer metastasis or recurrence? Hello Doctor, my mother was diagnosed with a malignant tumor on her ovary two years ago. At that time, it was decided to remove the ovary without chemotherapy. Post-surgery, regular follow-ups showed no signs ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: After reviewing the medical history, your choices are quite reasonable. Since you have been following the same physician for many years, I suggest continuing with them. Even if there is a recurrence of lymphoma, you can simply proceed with chemotherapy, as there are no oth...[Read More] Understanding Lymphadenopathy: Concerns About Cancer Recurrence and Treatment Options
Understanding Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Treatment and Prognosis
Stage IV lung adenocarcinoma Hello, my mother has been diagnosed with stage IV lung adenocarcinoma. The discharge summary states: 1. Malignant lung tumor (right-sided infiltrating adenocarcinoma); 2. Mediastinal lymph node metastasis; 3. Multiple bone metastases (bilateral iliac ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Huang: Hello. 1. A: There is no definite relationship between side effects and efficacy; many people take medication without experiencing side effects, yet it is effective. Some side effects, such as dermatitis, may occur a month later. During the time when the treatment is e...[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Lung Adenocarcinoma: Treatment and Prognosis
Understanding Recurrence Risks in Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
I would like to ask two questions regarding recurrence issues? Dear Dr. Chen, Thank you for your previous response regarding my mother's follow-up visit after completing breast cancer treatment, specifically concerning the possibility of recurrence after the ultrasound and ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Jerry / 44 years old / Male 1. My mother underwent a high-level PET-CT scan at Taipei Veterans General Hospital last July, and there were no signs of cancer throughout her body. Is it possible for her to have lymphatic metastasis or recurrence of breast cancer just one year late...[Read More] Understanding Recurrence Risks in Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
There is a lump in the groin area? When walking, I feel discomfort from a hard lump that I tried to pop myself. It bled, but it wasn't pus. The surface now appears a bit dark, but the round hard lump is still there and hasn't gone away.
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yu Ling / 20 years old / Female 1. I tried to pop it myself and there was blood, not pus. A: I do not recommend popping it. If there is an infection or inflammation that hasn't fully developed into an abscess, popping it too early can lead to a situation similar to your...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Signs of Tumors or Hormonal Changes?
There is a hard lump in the armpit? It was first noticed about 2.3 months ago while showering, when a lump was felt under the skin in the right armpit (not like a pimple that protrudes on the surface). It is painful when pressed or touched, and there is some discomfort when showe...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ms. Chen / 31 years old / Female If the changes are related to menstrual cycle irregularities, it should be fine. Mammography is recommended to start at age 45, and for those with a family history, it is advised to begin screening at age 40. Of course, there are clinical cases of...[Read More] Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Signs of Tumors or Hormonal Changes?
Understanding Vascular Mucous Tumors: Causes and Treatment Options
Inguinal tumor Hello, in May 2020, a mass was discovered in the right vulvar area (pubic region). After consulting with a gynecologist and undergoing surgery, it was found to be a vascular mucinous tumor. Now in July, I am feeling another lump in the same area. Upon returning for...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Vascular myxoma is a benign soft tissue tumor that grows slowly, with a recurrence rate of approximately 30-70%. Therefore, even after surgical excision, it is prone to recurrence, and regular follow-up in obstetrics and gynecology is recommended.[Read More] Understanding Vascular Mucous Tumors: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results in Cancer Survivors
Abnormal blood test results! Hello, Doctor. Thank you for taking the time to answer our questions. My mother has a medical history of being diagnosed with stage II colorectal cancer in March 2019. After surgery, she did not undergo any treatment and returned home to rest, with re...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: After reviewing the blood test results you mentioned, I believe there is no major concern. The blood cell counts are slightly low, which does not seem to be related to cancer recurrence. It appears more like a manifestation of nutritional deficiency. Individuals who follow...[Read More] Understanding Abnormal Blood Test Results in Cancer Survivors
Understanding Breast Cancer Recurrence: Key Insights and Concerns
Does breast cancer recur? Hello Dr. Chen: My mother was diagnosed with lobular carcinoma of the breast in April 2019. She has completed both chemotherapy and radiation therapy. During a recent follow-up appointment, the doctor performed an ultrasound and subsequently conducted a ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Jerry / 44 years old / Male 1. Is it possible that this is metastasis or recurrence? A: It is possible. 2. Is the opposite side the contralateral side? The likelihood of developing breast cancer in the opposite breast is higher than that of the general population, so the phys...[Read More] Understanding Breast Cancer Recurrence: Key Insights and Concerns
Understanding Throat Pain and Foreign Sensation: When to Seek Help
Oral issues Hello Doctor, I would like to ask for your advice. I have been experiencing a sensation of a foreign body and sharp pain in my throat and pharyngeal wall (the area from the uvula down to the deep throat) for the past three months. The symptoms seem to be getting more ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Some individuals may experience a persistent sensation of a foreign body or pain in the throat after tonsil surgery. If gastroesophageal reflux or oropharyngeal reflux issues are ruled out, and there are no abnormalities found during regular follow-ups with an otolaryngologist an...[Read More] Understanding Throat Pain and Foreign Sensation: When to Seek Help
Understanding Bruising Issues: Causes and Remedies for Tumor Patients
Bruising Issues Hello Doctor, I have to sleep on a comforter; otherwise, I easily get bruises. Sometimes when I sleep on my side, if I sleep on my left leg today, I will have bruises and pain tomorrow, and I apply medicated patches. Recently, the bruises haven't been fading;...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to first consult a hematologist to check for any coagulation function abnormalities. In terms of diet, it is advisable to increase the intake of foods rich in vitamin K or C.[Read More] Understanding Bruising Issues: Causes and Remedies for Tumor Patients
Understanding Liver Calcifications in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment My husband has metastatic colorectal cancer. He has undergone surgery to remove the colorectal tumor, and there are two tumors in the liver measuring 1 to 2 centimeters each. There are also about 7 to 8 white calcifications in the liver. He has just completed his...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Yihsin / 38 years old / Female Patient: Doctor, are liver calcifications precursors to tumors (shadows)? Doctor: No, the causes of liver cancer are usually related to infections from hepatitis B or C, excessive alcohol consumption, or long-term damage. Otherwise, what causes ca...[Read More] Understanding Liver Calcifications in Metastatic Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Understanding Sigmoid Colon Thickening: Do You Need Another Colonoscopy?
Colonic enlargement Hello Doctor, I consulted with you a few days ago regarding my lower abdominal pain. The CT report indicated thickening of the sigmoid colon wall, and you recommended a colonoscopy. However, I had a normal colonoscopy three months ago. Do I need to undergo ano...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: If you had a colonoscopy three months ago and there were no abnormalities, there is no need to repeat it now. As for the report from the CT scan, you should consult the physician who ordered the examination to understand their interpretation of the report. I cannot make an...[Read More] Understanding Sigmoid Colon Thickening: Do You Need Another Colonoscopy?