Does Vaccination Cause Lymph Node Swelling? Common Concerns Explained
Is lymphadenopathy common after vaccination? Dear Dr. Chen, I hope you remember me. A few years ago, I consulted you regarding my lymph nodes. I have a few questions again: 1. Three years ago, I noticed a lymph node on the left side of my clavicle. I had a CT scan three years ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, Xiao Ke / 41 years old / Male. 1. Is it true that vaccination can cause lymphadenopathy? A: It is possible! However, it does not occur in everyone, and the incidence is relatively low; otherwise, it would be reported frequently on television. 2. I received the vaccine ...[Read More] Does Vaccination Cause Lymph Node Swelling? Common Concerns Explained
Understanding Cancer Cell Transmission and Risks in Daily Life
Issues related to cancer cells contacting other sites? Hello Dr. Hu, I would like to ask some questions regarding cancer: 1. Can cancer cells be found in our feces? Do patients with colorectal cancer have cancer cells in their feces? Do these cancer cells in the feces have the ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. No, colorectal cancer will only present with blood in the stool or black stools, or there may be a positive fecal occult blood test. 2. None of the above concerns will occur; cancer is not transmitted through contact.[Read More] Understanding Cancer Cell Transmission and Risks in Daily Life
Stage IV Ampullary Cancer with Liver and Lung Metastasis: Treatment Insights
Stage IV ampullary carcinoma with liver and lung metastases? Hello, my mother was diagnosed with stage IV ampullary cancer after going to the hospital for diarrhea in March of this year. She is not a candidate for surgery and started chemotherapy on May 10th, having completed fou...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
During cancer treatment, appetite may decrease or weight loss may occur due to the cancer itself or cancer-related therapies. However, if the decreased appetite occurs only 2-3 days after chemotherapy, it likely represents an acute side effect of the treatment. It sounds like you...[Read More] Stage IV Ampullary Cancer with Liver and Lung Metastasis: Treatment Insights
Understanding Liver and Kidney Function in Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma
Diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma with a 14 cm liver tumor metastasized to the thoracic vertebrae? Hello doctor, my husband has been diagnosed with a 14 cm cholangiocarcinoma with metastasis to the thoracic spine. In such cases, what are the typical values and trends for liver fu...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma measuring 14 cm; if the patient's physical condition, eating function, and weight are normal, there may be only mild liver function abnormalities, with slight elevations in jaundice and renal function indices, among other abnormal laboratory v...[Read More] Understanding Liver and Kidney Function in Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma
Understanding Small Intestinal Adenocarcinoma: Treatment Options and Quality of Life
Small intestine adenocarcinoma Recently, due to abdominal pain, nausea, and inability to eat, I vomited after eating and went to the hospital for a detailed examination. The diagnosis was small intestine malignant tumor, specifically small intestine adenocarcinoma, which has alre...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to surgically remove the site of the tumor obstruction to first address issues related to eating, drinking, and bowel movements. Additionally, considering your age is relatively young, if your overall health is stable (with no significant weight loss or other ch...[Read More] Understanding Small Intestinal Adenocarcinoma: Treatment Options and Quality of Life
Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Inquiries related to breast cancer? Recently, my mother was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. She has already undergone surgery and is preparing to start chemotherapy. I would like to know if there is a possibility of recovery in this situation, or if she can return to a nor...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Zhenyu / 24 years old / Male 1. Is it possible for you to recover from this condition? A: Most people do recover. 2. Can you live a normal life? A: Yes, you can. 3. What should be noted regarding your mother's health condition? A: From a Western medicine perspect...[Read More] Understanding Stage II Breast Cancer: Treatment and Recovery Insights
Understanding a Lumps Under the Chin: When to Seek Medical Advice
There is a mass under the chin that appears to be a tumor? Hello, when I was in middle school, a lump about a little over one centimeter in diameter suddenly appeared under my chin. It was oval-shaped, soft, movable, and painless. At that time, we were studying lymphatic tissues ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is likely just a calcified lymph node or another benign subcutaneous tumor. Observation is recommended. Essentially, maintaining normal lifestyle and dietary habits is sufficient, and there is no need for special precautions.[Read More] Understanding a Lumps Under the Chin: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Metastatic Colon Cancer Treatment and Emotional Support
Cancer treatment My husband has metastatic colorectal cancer and has undergone resection of the malignant tumor at Shuanghe Hospital. He had his third chemotherapy session on July 21, with a total of five sessions planned. A CT scan is scheduled for mid-August to assess the treat...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to have a detailed discussion with the attending physician; if necessary, you can request a consultation with an oncology psychologist, social worker, or other holistic support services![Read More] Understanding Metastatic Colon Cancer Treatment and Emotional Support
Understanding Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis
Cancer treatment My husband has metastatic colon cancer to the liver. The colon cancer has been surgically removed, and he underwent his second chemotherapy on July 7, which included 5-FU, Leucovorin, and Oxaliplatin. Before chemotherapy, his CEA level was 300, but after the firs...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
During the treatment of colorectal cancer, follow-up CT imaging and CEA levels are monitored every 2-3 months. Chemotherapy typically lasts for 3-4 months (approximately 6-9 cycles) before treatment effects can be assessed. Therefore, since only two cycles have been completed, an...[Read More] Understanding Chemotherapy for Colorectal Cancer with Liver Metastasis
Can One Lymph Node Shrink While Another Grows? Understanding Lymphoma Dynamics
Is it possible for one lymph node to shrink while another continues to enlarge in lymphoma? Hello, I found a lymph node in my neck in May. Last Thursday, an ultrasound showed one lymph node measuring 1.5 x 0.6 cm and another measuring 0.5 x 0.5 cm. The one I felt, which is 0.5 x ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Lin S, 33 years old, female. 1. If one of the lymph nodes has decreased in size, can we be somewhat reassured that lymphoma can be ruled out? Answer: Each case must be discussed individually. However, if it has decreased in size without treatment, it is likely not cancer. 2. I...[Read More] Can One Lymph Node Shrink While Another Grows? Understanding Lymphoma Dynamics
Understanding Stage 4 Colon Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy
Cancer treatment Dear Dr. Chen, My husband, Cheng-Chung, was diagnosed with stage IV colorectal cancer (metastatic colorectal cancer) in May 2021. A CT scan on May 11 at National Taiwan University Hospital revealed liver metastases, with multiple small tumors, approximately 7-8 ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: For stage IV colorectal cancer, according to current standard treatment, the first-line therapy consists of chemotherapy combined with the targeted drug Avastin. Based on previous research findings, the expected probability of tumor shrinkage is over 50%. The average durat...[Read More] Understanding Stage 4 Colon Cancer Treatment: Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapy
Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: What You Need to Know
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, about a month ago I noticed 2 to 3 lymph nodes near my neck and jaw area, each approximately 1 cm in size (I haven't had a cold recently). I hadn't paid attention to them before and I'm not sure when they appeared. Last week, I went to...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kiki / 30 years old / Female 1. Your doctor should have already explained to you what is normal. 2. You can only perform a self-examination on the parts you can feel each month to check for any changes in size. 3. You can still have regular follow-up ultrasounds, such as ev...[Read More] Understanding Enlarged Lymph Nodes: What You Need to Know
Managing Relapsed Rectal Cancer: Concerns About Chemotherapy and Liver Function
Recurrence of colorectal cancer? Two years ago, I was diagnosed with stage III rectal cancer. After surgery and chemotherapy, I recovered well and lived normally for about two years. During a recent routine check-up, a recurrence was found in the pelvic area. My original surgical...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
LHF / 58 years old / Male 1. Can I start taking this chemotherapy drug with my liver enzymes still being so high? A: Regardless of liver function, it is essential to continuously monitor liver function while taking this medication. If liver function continues to deteriorate, we...[Read More] Managing Relapsed Rectal Cancer: Concerns About Chemotherapy and Liver Function
Understanding Submandibular Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Insights
Submandibular lymph nodes Hello doctor, about three weeks ago, I accidentally felt two round lymph nodes about the size of soybeans at the junction of my chin and neck. They are not visibly protruding, so I hadn't noticed them before. Recently, I've noticed that sometim...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kiki / 30 years old / Female Hello, 1. Since I have already seen a doctor, it is likely benign for now. If there are any changes such as enlargement, discoloration, or hardness, then I should urgently see a doctor. If there are no changes, I can wait to see a doctor after the ...[Read More] Understanding Submandibular Lymph Nodes: Concerns and Insights
Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Potential Causes and Concerns
Lymphadenopathy Hello doctor, the largest lymph node on my chin was painful a long time ago, but it hasn't shrunk or enlarged for about 5 to 6 years. Recently, after taking anti-inflammatory medication, I feel that the lymph node on the left side of my neck, which has a simi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous / 18 years old / Female Hello, I apologize, but I believe your question can be summarized as follows: Are the many lymph nodes in your body indicative of lymphoma? I recommend that you visit a general surgeon for a proper evaluation. Thank you! Wishing you success on y...[Read More] Understanding Lymph Node Swelling: Potential Causes and Concerns
Understanding Subcutaneous Nodules: Are They Fat or Something Else?
Fat issues Hello, doctor! I am indeed quite overweight (currently on a weight loss journey), and I’ve noticed that when I touch the fleshy areas (such as the inner arms, double chin, and the flesh above the collarbone), I can feel some small, dense lumps under the skin. I’m wonde...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: There is no way to answer this online. I suggest that if you are really concerned, you should see a general surgeon. The doctor will be able to determine what it is by palpation. Is it a lipoma? A physical examination is necessary to find out. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Subcutaneous Nodules: Are They Fat or Something Else?
Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Causes and When to Seek Help
There is a hard lump in the armpit? Hello doctor, a few years ago I suddenly noticed a lump in my armpit. At first, it would sometimes hurt and sometimes not, especially more sensitive before my menstrual period, when touching it would cause pain. Now, after a few years, there is...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Apple / 30 years old / Female Hello, 1. I am not sure if these two are related? A: Yes, they are related and will definitely affect visual perception. 2. I don't know what this thing is? Also, if I want to get it checked, which specialty should I see? A: There is a hig...[Read More] Understanding Lumps in the Armpit: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Malignant Salivary Gland Tumors: Radiation Therapy Necessity and Risks
Malignant tumors of the salivary glands? Doctor, I would like to ask a question. My family member recently underwent surgery to remove a salivary gland tumor, which was later found to have malignant components. The doctor mentioned that they will need to undergo six weeks of radi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello! 1. Is radiation therapy absolutely necessary? A: Yes, it is necessary because when performing surgery, a safe margin must be maintained. The parotid gland is small, and if the tumor is too large, it may affect the appearance. Therefore, it can be predicted that the safe ma...[Read More] Understanding Malignant Salivary Gland Tumors: Radiation Therapy Necessity and Risks
Understanding Retinal Issues in Multiple Myeloma Patients: Symptoms and Solutions
Multiple myeloma causing retinal issues? Hello Doctor, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma about two years ago, and after treatment, my symptoms stabilized for a year. Recently, however, my left eye suddenly became blurry and I couldn't see clearly. I visited the ophthalmo...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Zhang Ren'an / 72 years old / Male Your questions may exceed my ability to answer, please forgive me. 1. Are there more definitive examination methods for these eye symptoms? (e.g., fluorescein angiography) A: This should be directed to an ophthalmologist. The hematologi...[Read More] Understanding Retinal Issues in Multiple Myeloma Patients: Symptoms and Solutions
Can Patients with Implanted Vascular Devices Use Body Fat Scales During Chemotherapy?
Is it safe to use a body fat scale during chemotherapy if there is an artificial blood vessel implanted in the body? My mother is currently undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer and has an artificial blood vessel implanted in her body. I have noticed that commercial body fat ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Concerned individual / 20 years old / Woman. Cannot use body fat scale before the artificial blood vessel is removed. Wishing for a smooth treatment at Taoyuan Hospital, Dr. Chen Si-Rong.[Read More] Can Patients with Implanted Vascular Devices Use Body Fat Scales During Chemotherapy?