Should I Wait to See a Doctor for a Neck Lump While Abroad?
I have a hard lump on my neck and I'm unsure if I should wait until I return to Taiwan to seek medical attention? Hello, doctor. I am currently a junior and an intern in Vietnam, planning to intern for one semester (from March to the end of June). Shortly after my arrival, I...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It may just be lymphadenopathy; it is recommended to observe and follow up in three months when you return to Taiwan.[Read More] Should I Wait to See a Doctor for a Neck Lump While Abroad?
Possible Causes of a Bump Below the Elbow: What You Should Know
A protrusion below the elbow that appears to be a bruise? Hello doctor, in the past few months, I have noticed a protrusion below my elbow that feels like a bruise when I touch it. Sometimes it appears more flat, but it looks very much like a bruise. However, it does not feel unc...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Thank you for your inquiry. Based on the elbow photo, it appears that there is a benign tumor present. However, the physician cannot guarantee that it is 100% benign unless it is surgically removed and sent for pathological examination. Generally, the options are as follows: 1. Y...[Read More] Possible Causes of a Bump Below the Elbow: What You Should Know
Understanding Cystic Tumors: Risks, Treatment, and Prognosis Explained
Cystic tumor Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about my brother, who was recently taken to the ER due to sudden hematuria. After undergoing X-rays, ultrasound, and CT scans, he was diagnosed with a possible renal angiomyolipoma. However, after a consultation with radiology, ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is advisable to further discuss the surgical risks with your physician. After the excision, we can have a detailed discussion regarding subsequent treatments based on the pathology report.[Read More] Understanding Cystic Tumors: Risks, Treatment, and Prognosis Explained
Understanding Cystic Renal Tumors: Risks, Types, and Treatment Options
Cystic tumor Hello Doctor, I apologize for bothering you. My older brother went to the ER a few days ago due to sudden hematuria. The initial assessment suggested a renal cyst, but after X-ray, ultrasound, and CT scans, it was suspected to be a renal angiomyolipoma. However, afte...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to further discuss the surgical risks with the physician and to wait for the pathology report after the excision before having a detailed discussion about subsequent related treatments.[Read More] Understanding Cystic Renal Tumors: Risks, Types, and Treatment Options
Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: When to Worry and What to Expect
The lymph nodes are slightly swollen? Hello, doctor. Is it possible for swollen lymph nodes to not resolve?
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Meng Meng / 21 years old / Female Hello, the lymph nodes are a bit swollen. Is there a possibility that they won't go down? 1. Lymphadenopathy may be due to infections (such as a cold) or tumors. 2. Typically, lymph nodes associated with tumors may not resolve unless tre...[Read More] Understanding Swollen Lymph Nodes: When to Worry and What to Expect
Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
For breast cancer staged as 1A N0(i) M0 after complete surgical resection, the need for chemotherapy or targeted therapy depends on several factors, including the tumor's hormone receptor status (estrogen and progesterone receptors), HER2 status, and the patient's overa...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Miss LISA, I have received your letter and appreciate the detailed information you provided. Here is a summary of the findings: 1. Your friend has Stage IA breast cancer, not in situ carcinoma. 2. Tumor characteristics: the tumor measures ≤ 1 mm, with three foci. 3. Lymph ...[Read More] Do Patients with Stage 1A Breast Cancer Need Chemotherapy After Surgery?
Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Breast cancer issues? Hello Doctor: My mother has stage III breast cancer that has metastasized to the lymph nodes. She underwent surgery for breast and lymph node removal but has not received chemotherapy. Currently, her blood tests show normal CEA levels, but one item, the cyto...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Regarding these questions, I am unable to provide answers because 1. The person who ordered the blood tests for those specific markers is responsible for interpreting their significance. Moreover, whether a tumor has recurred cannot be determined solely by elevated tumor m...[Read More] Understanding Rising Tumor Markers in Stage III Breast Cancer: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations: When to Worry About Tumors
Physical condition Hello, doctor. Recently, for about a week, around noon, my body temperature rises to 36.8-37.2°C. Sometimes I feel a bit warm, but by 8 or 9 PM, my temperature returns to 36.6-36.8°C. I have had blood tests done, and the results are normal (cholesterol and trig...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Body temperature can change in response to external environmental temperatures; for instance, higher temperatures at noon can lead to relatively higher body temperatures, and vice versa. A body temperature exceeding 38°C or below 36°C is clinically significant (indicating fever o...[Read More] Understanding Body Temperature Fluctuations: When to Worry About Tumors
Understanding Neck Lumps: Concerns About Potential Tumors in Smokers
Neck issues My dad has been smoking and chewing betel nut for about ten years. Recently, he noticed a small hard lump on the back of his neck that cannot be moved. Today, he mentioned that another small lump has appeared on the same side, both are less than 2 centimeters and not ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is recommended to see an otolaryngologist.[Read More] Understanding Neck Lumps: Concerns About Potential Tumors in Smokers
Understanding Stage IV Astrocytoma: Survival Rates and Post-Surgery Care
A family member has been diagnosed with stage IV astrocytoma, and the doctor has given a prognosis of only 1.5 years left? Hello Dr. Lai, my family member has been diagnosed with a brain tumor (Grade IV astrocytoma), and the doctor has informed us that there is only about a year ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
The first question is unclear, and I cannot provide advice based on it. For the second question, please avoid consuming irritating foods such as spicy, greasy, fried foods, and stewed dishes with old ginger and Chinese cabbage. For more detailed information, you may consult a nut...[Read More] Understanding Stage IV Astrocytoma: Survival Rates and Post-Surgery Care
The Connection Between Tumors, Immunity, and Work Stress Explained
The relationship between tumors (cancer), immunity, and stress? It is commonly said that tumors are related to immunity, and that work-related stress can lead to a decrease in immune function. As a researcher, I am constantly thinking of new ideas and often work longer hours than...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. He / 44 years old / Male 1. Enjoys work 2. Does not consider work-related stress significant 3. Immunity only decreases due to prolonged stress Wishing you enjoyment in your work, even when facing stress. Taoyuan Hospital Dr. Chen Si-Rong Thank you.[Read More] The Connection Between Tumors, Immunity, and Work Stress Explained
Understanding a Painless Lump Near the Collarbone: What You Should Know
There is a protrusion near the clavicle on the left shoulder? Two days ago, I accidentally adjusted my bra straps and felt a lump. It is noticeable, but it doesn't hurt or itch. I'm very worried that I might have developed a tumor.
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
You can check your breasts and armpits for any lumps. If there are none, it is advisable to monitor the situation for a period of time. If the lumps do not continue to grow, they are usually benign masses (such as lipomas, etc.). However, if there is an increase in size, it is re...[Read More] Understanding a Painless Lump Near the Collarbone: What You Should Know
Understanding Swelling in the Right Neck: Possible Causes and Concerns
Swelling in the right neck? Hello Doctor: Last Friday morning, I woke up to find two lumps in the middle of my right neck. Initially, they felt similar to a calf muscle cramp, swollen and painful. When I visited the clinic that evening, one of the lumps had merged into a larger m...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Miss: 1. If nasopharyngeal carcinoma has metastasized, the lump will not disappear with medication. 2. All tumor diagnoses are primarily based on pathology reports. A few are diagnosed through visual examination, unless the tumor has progressed to the point of ulceratio...[Read More] Understanding Swelling in the Right Neck: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding a Small Tumor on the Shoulder Blade: Risks and Insights
A tumor has developed inside the acromion of the scapula? Hello, I have discovered a small lump at the acromion of my scapula. When I first found it (in August-September), there was some mild pain, but it has since remained about the same size (less than 1 cm) and is not painful....
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
Typically, lesions that are painless, non-itchy, and score below one on a scale of one to ten are mostly benign tumors, such as lipomas. It is recommended to simply observe them.[Read More] Understanding a Small Tumor on the Shoulder Blade: Risks and Insights
Discrepancies in CT Scan Interpretations: A Tumor Case Study
The interpretations of the CT scan differ between the two hospitals? During an ultrasound at the clinic, a shadow on the liver was detected. Later, a CT scan at a regional hospital revealed a 2.6 cm liver tumor, with the radiology report suggesting it might be a hemangioma and re...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
A 2.6 cm liver tumor, unless typical features of liver cancer are observed on imaging, will generally lead physicians to conservatively conclude that malignancy cannot be ruled out; therefore, it is recommended to follow up with an ultrasound in three months.[Read More] Discrepancies in CT Scan Interpretations: A Tumor Case Study
Do Pituitary Tumors Require Surgery? Understanding Hormonal Imbalances
Do pituitary tumors require surgery? I have a 0.7 cm cyst... I don't feel any discomfort in my daily life, but my blood tests revealed two issues: 1. Prolactin levels are higher than normal, but they decreased after taking cabergoline. 2. Hormonal abnormalities were noted, w...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It is advisable to consult an endocrinologist for more appropriate guidance.[Read More] Do Pituitary Tumors Require Surgery? Understanding Hormonal Imbalances
Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Cancer Recurrence or Bone Metastasis?
Abnormal cancer markers? Hello Doctor, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer nearly 10 years ago and underwent treatment. Five years ago, doctors confirmed that there were no tumors. She has continued to have ultrasounds every year. This year, my mother reported neck pain th...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear [Recipient], Regarding your inquiry, the elevation of the CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen) level can be attributed to various factors. If the levels continue to rise, further investigation will be necessary. Please return to your attending physician for evaluation. Wishing y...[Read More] Understanding Elevated CEA Levels: Cancer Recurrence or Bone Metastasis?
Understanding Why Tumors Develop: Exploring Genetic and Health Factors
Why is it easy to develop tumors? Since being diagnosed with a benign chondroma at the age of 23, I have subsequently been found to have fibromas, a breast adenoma, ovarian cysts, and two enlarged inflamed lymph nodes in the neck. Could this be due to my constitution? There are t...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: According to statistics, the leading cause of death in Taiwan is cancer, which means that most people are likely to die from cancer in the end, although we do not know at what age this will happen. No one can guarantee that we will be alive and well tomorrow. Do you curren...[Read More] Understanding Why Tumors Develop: Exploring Genetic and Health Factors
Painful Lump in Armpit: Should You Worry About Cancer?
There is a hard lump in the armpit that is very painful? I have recently noticed a hard lump in my armpit that is painful, especially when touched. The skin surface has a slight redness, and the lump is nearly 4 centimeters in size. There is a small wound near the lump. Should I ...
Dr. Hu Ziren Reply:
It sounds like it may just be a subcutaneous abscess. I recommend that you first consult a general surgeon. Alternatively, you can keep the area dry and clean, and if it does not increase in size over a period of time, you can simply monitor it.[Read More] Painful Lump in Armpit: Should You Worry About Cancer?
Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Managing Hormonal Imbalances and Symptoms
Pituitary tumor, endocrine dysfunction, tumor issues? Doctor, I am 25 years old and was diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Blood tests showed a prolactin level of over 90, and an MRI revealed a 0.5 mm pituitary tumor. Now at 28, the tumor size has not changed. Initi...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Patient: En, 28 years old, female 1. Unsure if symptoms are side effects of medication. 2. Consider consulting an endocrinologist. Wishing you peace and joy, Taoyuan Hospital, Chen Si-Rong[Read More] Understanding Pituitary Tumors: Managing Hormonal Imbalances and Symptoms