Stomach cancer, Oncology FAQ

Understanding Elevated AFP Levels: Potential Causes and Next Steps

Abnormal elevation of AFP levels? Hello, I underwent a physical examination on May 25th, where it was found that my alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) level was elevated at 19.3. Other liver function tests, including GOT, GPT, alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, and albumin, were all normal. A...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Faye / 30 years old / Female Hello, 1. Please refer to the first response. 2. If the CT scan still shows no abnormalities, what additional tests (which can be self-paid) are recommended to identify the cause? A: A whole-body positron emission tomography (PET) scan can be cons...

Key Questions About Cancer Risks and Diagnosis in Oncology

Some questions I would like to confirm? Hello, Doctor. I have health anxiety and often think about many things. I hope you can provide clear answers to my questions: 1. How closely should I monitor my health if a relative has had cancer? My grandmother had stomach cancer; shoul...

Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
1. Only less than 2% of stomach cancer is hereditary; however, the causes of cancer require several conditions: 1. personal factors (such as smoking and alcohol consumption), 2. environmental factors, and 3. genetic mutations. Therefore, even if there are hereditary factors, the ...

Switching from Injectable to Oral Chemotherapy for Stomach Cancer: Is It Possible?

Switching from injectable chemotherapy for gastric cancer to oral administration? Hello Dr. Chen, My father (60 years old) underwent a partial gastrectomy due to gastric cancer. The doctor recommended adjuvant chemotherapy (5-FU), and he has completed the eighth cycle out of twe...

Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Chemotherapy for gastric cancer has a moderate emetogenic potential. Generally, patients may experience some nausea after administration, but it is not usually severe or intolerable. If your father's constitution is sensitive and he experiences more than just 2-3 days...

Understanding Beta-2 Microglobulin Levels in Lymphoma Diagnosis

Please provide your questions related to the B2-M index? Hello Dr. Hu, A month ago, I developed a cluster of five lymph nodes of varying sizes on the right side of my neck within a week. The doctor tested my cancer marker, and my Beta-2 microglobulin level was 2415 (the referen...

Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Beta-2 microglobulin is a protein found on the surface of nucleated cells. Its elevation can sometimes indicate activation of immune cells in the body. Therefore, blood tests during allergic reactions may be affected to some extent.

Managing Early Stage Stomach Cancer: Care Tips and Medication Effectiveness

Early-stage gastric cancer..? I would like to inquire about an elderly family member in their 60s. A few years ago, they suffered a stroke that left the left side of their body paralyzed. Recently, during a bowel movement, they noticed black stools, and upon examination, they wer...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Neighbor's younger sister / 36 years old / Female 1. I would like to ask if cancer medication is effective? A: The side effects are a matter of probability, depending on the specific medication. You can refer to the drug manufacturer's package insert for detailed info...

Can Massage Chairs Be Safe for Patients with Stomach Cancer?

Can patients with stomach cancer use a massage chair? Hello, Director Lai: I would like to ask you, my father underwent stage 0 gastric cancer surgery three years ago and had 2/3 of his stomach removed. He occasionally experiences inflammation. May I ask if it is safe for my fath...

Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Ms. Lu: If the massage is not specifically targeting the abdominal area, it can be used; however, it is best to seek a professional massage therapist to perform the massage techniques to avoid any potential injury. Thank you for your inquiry. Changhua Hospital cares about y...

Can Breast Cancer Metastasize to the Liver After Lung Spread?

Breast cancer metastasis to the lungs? Is it possible for breast cancer that has metastasized to the lungs to also metastasize to the liver?

Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, sir: The most common sites of cancer metastasis are the lungs, bones, and liver. The primary metastatic sites for different types of cancer are as follows: - Breast cancer: lungs, liver, bones. - Colorectal cancer: liver, peritoneum, lungs. - Kidney cancer: lungs, liver,...

Can You Keep a Dog During Stomach Cancer Chemotherapy?

Chemotherapy for gastric cancer in dogs? Hello Dr. Lai, my family member is in the late stage of stage III gastric cancer. They have had half of their stomach removed and have started their first round of chemotherapy. The hospital mentioned that it's best not to have a dog ...

Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Miss L: I would like to inform you that 1. The hospital advises against having a dog during chemotherapy, as they are concerned about the risk of infection due to weakened immunity during this period. Once chemotherapy is completed and immunity is restored, it is certainly...

Dietary Recommendations for Managing Gastric Cancer and Chemotherapy Side Effects

What foods should be consumed for stomach cancer, such as fish and similar items? My family member is approximately 78 years old and is male. He has been diagnosed with stomach cancer and underwent surgery to remove a little less than two-thirds of his stomach. Subsequent examina...

Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Mr. Wang, Thank you for your letter. Here are my responses: Your family member is currently undergoing chemotherapy after gastric cancer surgery. You inquired about dietary supplements that may alleviate side effects and discomfort. 1. I recommend discussing with your phy...

Understanding Concerns About Lymph Nodes in the Left Neck Area

Regarding the suspected lymph nodes in the left neck? Dr. Chen, I am the one who was previously very anxious about "cancer phobia." This time, I really felt a lump in the lower middle part of my left neck. Here’s what happened: two days ago, while I was showering, I acc...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
"Coco, who is suffering from cancer anxiety: 1. The internet says that lymph nodes above the left clavicle 'must be a metastasis from stomach cancer,' but that is not necessarily true. 2. If they feel soft and movable, they are more likely benign, so don't wor...

Overcoming Cancer Anxiety: Coping Strategies for Tumor Fears

Cancer phobia Hello Doctor: I have been consumed by the fear of cancer for the past few months. It started with an ultrasound examination last September (initially for fatty liver, but the doctor suspected a tumor in my kidney). A subsequent CT scan confirmed that everything was ...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Coco: 1. Your reaction is completely normal; it's good to remember any health information you hear and reflect on whether it applies to you. 2. You may have overreacted a bit; if the tests come back negative, just let it go and find peace! 3. You have already noted the sympt...

Can Cancer Be Contagious? Understanding Hepatocellular, Cervical, and Stomach Cancer

Can cancer be transmitted? Hello, I saw a message online stating that liver cancer, cervical cancer, and stomach cancer are contagious. Is this true?

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
1. Cancer itself is not contagious. 2. Most patients with liver cancer have either hepatitis B or hepatitis C, which can be transmitted through blood and sexual contact. If you have received the hepatitis B vaccine, you do not need to worry; however, there is no vaccine for hep...

How to Differentiate Between a Sternum Lump and a Tumor?

How to distinguish between a xiphoid process and a tumor when there is a hard lump in the center of the sternum? Hello, I recently discovered a hard lump in the center of my chest, specifically at the xiphoid process, and it seems to have grown larger. It is more noticeable when ...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Some individuals suddenly experience a noticeable change in their xiphoid process, which becomes enlarged and hardened. The xiphoid process is a piece of cartilage at the lower end of the sternum. In childhood, it is not very prominent due to its cartilaginous nature. However, in...

Understanding Chemotherapy Effectiveness in Advanced Stomach Cancer

Gastric cancer chemotherapy Hello Dr. Chen, my mother was diagnosed with stage 4 gastric cancer with ovarian metastasis in July of last year (it has spread to the diaphragm). During surgery, only the ovary was removed, and a gastric bypass was performed. Chemotherapy started in m...

Dr. Chen Junyi Reply:
Based on your description, it may be effective; however, it is advisable to discuss the specific situation with the attending physician.

Understanding Chemotherapy Options After Stomach Cancer Surgery

Postoperative chemotherapy for gastric cancer? Hello Dr. Chen, my father (73 years old) underwent a total gastrectomy due to stomach cancer and was discharged just one week ago. The outpatient physician mentioned that he needs to schedule chemotherapy. I would like to know if che...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Chemotherapy for gastric cancer can be administered orally or through injection. If the patient's condition allows, injection chemotherapy is generally more intense; however, it also comes with more significant side effects, primarily nausea and vomiting, as well as a decrea...

Understanding the Rapid Progression of Stomach Cancer: A Patient's Journey

The development period of gastric cancer? Dear Doctor: Recently, I read about a physician from National Taiwan University who was diagnosed with liver cancer and passed away within a brief period of 2 to 3 months. Is it possible for all types of cancer to progress from zero to te...

Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello: 1. Normal gastric cells naturally undergo apoptosis and regeneration at fixed intervals, achieving homeostasis. 2. During the process of cell regeneration, which involves gene replication and division, some genetic mutations may occur. 3. A small number of cells with genet...

Understanding Gastric Cancer Symptoms and Treatment Options

Please provide the content related to stomach cancer that you would like me to translate? Hello Doctor: My grandmother was diagnosed with stomach cancer two years ago, but due to her advanced age, she did not undergo further surgery or chemotherapy and has only been taking the me...

Dr. Lin Zongzhe Reply:
Hello! In patients with gastric cancer, the presence of difficulty swallowing and vomiting should raise the suspicion of intestinal obstruction. The treatment should be determined based on the location and severity of the obstruction, as well as the patient's other medical c...