Exploring SLOG Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Taiwan
The effectiveness of SLOG therapy for pancreatic cancer? Hello, doctor. My mother is 76 years old. In July of this year, she experienced abdominal pain and was examined at Cathay General Hospital in Taipei, where she was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer with liver metastasis. My ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: There is no standard answer to this treatment question. When it comes to medication options for advanced pancreatic cancer, which is better? Which has fewer side effects? What kind of treatment can the body still tolerate? It all depends on the current situation. I cannot ...[Read More] Exploring SLOG Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer Treatment in Taiwan
Understanding Squamous Lung Cancer: Questions and Concerns for Patients and Families
Many questions? Hello, doctor. My family members do not smoke or drink alcohol. During the day, they work in an office, and at night, they cook. One family member was diagnosed with bone metastasis from squamous lung cancer after suffering from a persistent cough that would not i...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous / 25 years old / Female 1. How often should I get an LDCT scan? Is it too frequent to have one every two to three years? A: 1.1 Please confirm if you meet the criteria for the "Taiwan Low-Dose Computed Tomography Lung Cancer Screening Consensus Statement" reg...[Read More] Understanding Squamous Lung Cancer: Questions and Concerns for Patients and Families
Understanding Safe Radiation Doses and Treatment Continuity in Oncology
A small issue? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if an 800-milliCurie dose is considered a safe total amount for treatment, or if this is also the safe value during scanning examinations. Is it necessary to continue treatment with the original hospital and physician, rather than...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. Is a dose of 1.800 millicuries the safe total amount for treatment, or is this the safety value for the dose during scanning examinations? Answer: Yes, but this refers specifically to I-131 and does not include other examinations. 2. Is it necessary to stick with the origin...[Read More] Understanding Safe Radiation Doses and Treatment Continuity in Oncology
Understanding the Long-Term Effects of I-131 Treatment in Thyroid Cancer Patients
May I ask the doctor? Hello, Doctor. Due to PTC, I underwent a total thyroidectomy and received a 120 mCi dose of I-131. For the past two to three years, my follow-ups have included ultrasound, serum thyroglobulin, TSH, and FT4 tests. I would like to ask if radioactive iodine tre...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Anonymous / 25 years old / Female 1. I would like to ask if radioactive iodine treatment increases the future risk of infertility, pulmonary fibrosis, or leukemia? ANS: Potential side effects of radioactive iodine treatment include thyroiditis, which may occur if there is a si...[Read More] Understanding the Long-Term Effects of I-131 Treatment in Thyroid Cancer Patients
Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Cervical lymph nodes/tumors I have an oval-shaped lump on the left side of my neck, one above my right ear, and another near my left mandible. They are all soft, movable, and painless. They have been present for about five years and do not seem to have increased in size. I previo...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: If you are worried, please consult a physician; this written communication cannot provide a diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Worry About Tumors or Infections
Inguinal mass About two months ago, I first noticed a hard lump approximately 4 centimeters in size in the groin area of my left leg. It feels soft on the surface but is hard at the base and painful when pressed, giving a sensation of being connected to other areas. After a few d...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Recurrent episodes that come and go; it is recommended to first consult a general surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: When to Worry About Tumors or Infections
Abnormal White Blood Cell and Platelet Counts: Should You Worry?
Abnormal white blood cell count and platelet count? Hello Doctor, two years ago my blood test showed a white blood cell count of 7,600 and a platelet count of 256. This year, my blood test showed a white blood cell count of 13,400 and a platelet count of 387. A month later, at an...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your data is insufficient to determine whether there is cancer or not. I do not recommend using blood tests to screen for any type of cancer, as they are not very accurate. Thank you.[Read More] Abnormal White Blood Cell and Platelet Counts: Should You Worry?
Understanding Lumps Under the Armpits: Inflammation or Something More?
There are hard lumps on both sides of the armpits? Last year, I experienced pain under my left armpit, and when pressed, I could feel a lump that was also purulent. At that time, I went to a clinic and applied medication, which resolved the issue. On the right side, there was a l...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
A painful lump in the armpit that is purulent is likely just folliculitis or another localized subcutaneous inflammation. It is recommended to monitor the condition.[Read More] Understanding Lumps Under the Armpits: Inflammation or Something More?
Understanding Blood Test Results: Concerns About Lymphocytes and Leukemia
Blood test Hello Dr. Hu, I would like to ask you about my blood test results. My WBC is 4.43, Neutrophils segmented 27.0, Lymphocytes 56.0, Monocytes 9.0, Eosinophils 5.0, Basophils 0.0, and Atypical lymphocytes 3.0. In August of this year, I also had a WBC test done at my family...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Atypical lymphocytes are a transient physiological response caused by viral infections and are not malignant. Therefore, it is recommended to wait until the cold has resolved or to have blood drawn for follow-up after three months.[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Concerns About Lymphocytes and Leukemia
Persistent Arm Inflammation: Could It Be a Sign of Breast Cancer?
I have developed a lump on my forearm! It has been inflamed repeatedly for over three months, with each episode lasting more than a month. When the inflammation is severe, I experience pain in my armpit, and I can also feel small lumps on my upper arm and chest? Hello Doctor: I h...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ring, 41 years old, female. At your age, you should have a mammogram every two years. If there are any issues, you can consult a breast surgeon and undergo a breast ultrasound for more specific guidance. Wishing you good health. Taoyuan Hospital, Dr. Chen Sih-Jung.[Read More] Persistent Arm Inflammation: Could It Be a Sign of Breast Cancer?
Understanding Causes of Normocytic Anemia: Is It Myeloma or Throat Bleeding?
The causes of normocytic anemia can vary, but in your case, the most likely reasons could include chronic disease, acute blood loss, or renal insufficiency? Hello Doctor, on August 22nd of this year, I suddenly experienced significant bleeding from my throat, with more than four ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Causes of normocytic anemia may include bleeding or hemolysis; it appears to be acute anemia caused by hematemesis. It is recommended to follow up with further testing after three months, provided there are no discomforting symptoms.[Read More] Understanding Causes of Normocytic Anemia: Is It Myeloma or Throat Bleeding?
Understanding Renal Hemangiomas: Growth, Treatment, and Specialist Guidance
Renal angioma 1. In October 2019, during my health check-up, an ultrasound examination revealed a 1 cm benign hemangioma on my kidney. In October of this year, another ultrasound indicated that the benign hemangioma has grown to 1.3 cm. Is this growth considered rapid? 2. Is sur...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. Are you referring to renal hemangioma or renal angiomyolipomas? If it is renal hemangioma, it is quite rare, and renal angiography is required for diagnosis. 2. Unless there is significant hematuria or symptoms (such as compression of other organs or tissues), benign tumors ty...[Read More] Understanding Renal Hemangiomas: Growth, Treatment, and Specialist Guidance
Key Questions in Cancer Treatment: Insights for Patients and Caregivers
Cancer treatment-related issues? 1. Regarding the issue of colorectal cancer with liver metastasis, after ten cycles of chemotherapy and targeted therapy, the CT scan shows no change in the metastatic tumors, but the tumor marker has decreased from fifty to thirty. How should thi...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: First of all, regarding your cancer issue, it is best to consult your oncologist for answers, as I am not familiar with your condition and cannot provide guidance. Secondly, 1. I do not understand this; I have not heard of it. 2. Chemotherapy drugs should not be taken with...[Read More] Key Questions in Cancer Treatment: Insights for Patients and Caregivers
Post-Surgery Challenges in Stage IV Colon Cancer Treatment: Key Insights
Postoperative treatment issues for colorectal cancer? My father is in his seventies and has stage IV colon cancer with liver metastasis (both lobes have tumors of varying sizes). After undergoing bowel resection, he received 8 cycles of chemotherapy and 5 cycles of targeted thera...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. The thickening of the peritoneum indicates localized inflammation of the intestines, which may be a localized inflammatory response caused by chemotherapy. 2. The gallbladder issue was discovered incidentally and is not indicative of metastasis; the report suggests it may be...[Read More] Post-Surgery Challenges in Stage IV Colon Cancer Treatment: Key Insights
Is PRP Treatment Safe for Patients with a Cancer History?
Is it appropriate for patients with a history of cancer to undergo PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy? Hello, Doctor. I was diagnosed with stage I colon cancer six years ago and underwent surgical treatment without chemotherapy. My follow-up has been smooth since then. I am also ...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Ah Xiong / 47 years old / Male believes that the so-called PRP is an intra-articular injection, not a systemic blood injection. Therefore, I personally think it is acceptable. Wishing you swift recovery, Chen Si-Rong, Taoyuan Hospital.[Read More] Is PRP Treatment Safe for Patients with a Cancer History?
Understanding Brain MRI Reports: Insights from a Tumor Specialist
Dear Dr. Chen, please interpret the brain MRI report. Thank you? 109/09/16 Imaging or pathology report content Outpatient Zhang Yingzhen 4573630-9 F 5099 050 REQ# PROCEDURE: (15020011) Order Date: 2020/06/04 14:30 Corrected Report D55JCM5 MRI/BRAIN (For GK Follow-up) Execution Da...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Lin / 57 years old / Male Regarding the interpretation of the report: 1. The images belong to Zhang Yingzhen, not you. 2. Online, you cannot prove that you are his relative; the outpatient clinic requires a dual identification authorization form, or you should have accompanie...[Read More] Understanding Brain MRI Reports: Insights from a Tumor Specialist
Understanding Lumps on Thigh: Possible Lymphadenopathy Concerns
Swelling in the thigh suspected to be lymphadenopathy? Hello Dr. Chen, around September 25th, I experienced lower back pain, thinking it would improve, but I only went for a consultation on October 1st. The diagnosis was sciatica, and one day I felt pain radiating to the left sid...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: If the lump does not disappear or decrease in size after two weeks, please see a hematologist or a general surgeon. If the doctor finds anything unusual, they will arrange for a lymph node biopsy. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Lumps on Thigh: Possible Lymphadenopathy Concerns
Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Masses: Possible Causes and Concerns
Hard mass in the left lower abdomen? Hello, doctor. Recently, when lying flat, I can feel 4 to 5 firm lumps arranged in a line in my lower left abdomen. They are not painful or itchy, and they are especially noticeable in the morning, feeling larger (about one to two finger joint...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Tang / 29 years old / Female Hello, 1. The outpatient appointment is scheduled for a CT scan in two weeks: further remote consultation is no longer meaningful. 2. Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to address my concerns and alleviate my anxiety. A: You have already rec...[Read More] Understanding Left Lower Abdominal Masses: Possible Causes and Concerns
Exploring Treatment Options for Advanced Diffuse Liver Cancer
Diffuse hepatocellular carcinoma in advanced stage? Hello, my husband, who is 51 years old, was diagnosed with advanced diffuse liver cancer in early September. The doctors have said that it is untreatable. His bilirubin level has reached 12. I would like to know if there are any...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Afen / 51 years old / Female I can only repeat: doctors say it is untreatable. A glimmer of hope: it depends on your definition: everyone will reach the end point, and those with diffuse liver cancer are very close to it. You can try: targeted therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy...[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for Advanced Diffuse Liver Cancer
Understanding Your Mother's Blood Test Results: Key Values Explained
Please assist in interpreting the examination report? Hello doctor, could you please help me review my mother's test report and identify which values are problematic? Thank you. Blood Test Parameters: - White Blood Cell Count (WBC): 4.7 - Red Blood Cell Count (RBC): 4.23 - ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: There are abnormal blood cells in your blood; please see a hematologist. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Your Mother's Blood Test Results: Key Values Explained