Understanding Treatment Options for Advanced Throat Cancer
Cancer treatment Hello Dr. Lai, my husband discovered a hard lump on the right side of his jaw near the neck in January, which has been growing larger. He visited the ENT department at the hospital, where the doctor used an endoscope and noted an ulcer in the deep throat. Due to ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Ms. Chia, I received your letter regarding your husband's condition, and I would like to respond as follows: 1. The epiglottic vallecula is located anterior to the epiglottic cartilage and is associated with malignant tumors of the oropharynx. 2. The original treating...[Read More] Understanding Treatment Options for Advanced Throat Cancer
Understanding Abdominal Masses: Symptoms and Tumor Concerns
Abdominal mass? Hello doctor, I recently discovered a hard, movable mass in my lower left abdomen that I can only feel when lying down. It hurts when I press on it, and sometimes I experience abdominal pain along with chronic constipation. I'm very worried that it might be a...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, 1. There is a hard, movable mass in the left lower abdomen that can only be felt when lying down, and it is painful when pressed. The best course of action is to have a physician conduct a physical examination, and if necessary, perform an ultrasound or other relevant te...[Read More] Understanding Abdominal Masses: Symptoms and Tumor Concerns
Could a Hard, Movable Lump on My Neck Artery Be a Tumor?
There is a lump on the carotid artery? During the New Year, I had a case of tonsillitis with pus. After taking antibiotics, it improved, but I noticed a lump about 3 cm on the left artery. It is hard, not painful, and movable. I would like to ask the doctor if it could possibly b...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
A-Cheng / 23 years old / Male 1. It is quite rare for a 23-year-old to have head and neck cancer, but lymphoma is a possibility. Overall, the likelihood is low, but it is not entirely absent. 2. During the Lunar New Year, there was a case of tonsillar abscess, which improved aft...[Read More] Could a Hard, Movable Lump on My Neck Artery Be a Tumor?
Understanding Forehead Tumors During Pregnancy: When to Seek Treatment
A small tumor on the forehead? I am over four months pregnant and discovered a small tumor on my forehead during the Spring Festival this year. It is round, approximately 0.4 cm in diameter and about 0.2 cm in height. It feels hard to the touch and is close to skin color. Before ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Dear Ms. Juice, Regarding your inquiry about the small tumor on your forehead, I would like to provide the following recommendations: 1. No, local anesthesia will not affect the fetus. 2. Based on your description, it seems more likely to be benign. If you are concerned, you ...[Read More] Understanding Forehead Tumors During Pregnancy: When to Seek Treatment
Is It a Tumor or Lymph Node Inflammation? Understanding Your Symptoms
Is it a tumor or lymphadenitis? Hello, doctor: Today I suddenly noticed a round lump in the indentation where my left neck connects to my jaw. It usually doesn't hurt, but it does hurt when pressed, and it only becomes noticeable when I lower my head. It is about the width o...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: You can visit the Otolaryngology clinic or the Hematology-Oncology clinic. Please have the physician examine you to confirm whether it is an abnormal "lymphadenopathy" or a normally present "salivary gland." The two can be quite similar, but they can be...[Read More] Is It a Tumor or Lymph Node Inflammation? Understanding Your Symptoms
Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Breast tissue Hello, I previously inquired about this, but another physician seemed to misunderstand my question. They might have thought I was asking about bilateral asymmetry, so I would like to ask again about unilateral (local) asymmetry. Recently, a family member underwent...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
AC / 20 years old / Female. The breast ultrasound report needs to be explained by the physician; it cannot be interpreted solely based on the information you provided regarding asymmetry. Please return to the physician's clinic for a face-to-face consultation. Happy New Year...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Post-Colon Cancer Complications: Adhesions and Bowel Incontinence Solutions
Postoperative intestinal adhesions after colorectal cancer surgery? Hello, Doctor. My father was diagnosed with stage II colon cancer four years ago. He initially underwent chemotherapy to shrink the tumor before having surgery to preserve his anus, which unfortunately resulted i...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello, Sir: Question 1: Regarding new technologies, it would be better to consult a surgeon for more clarity. Question 2: Postoperative adhesions are often caused by previous abdominal surgeries, pelvic inflammatory disease due to infections, or even as a result of chemotherapy...[Read More] Post-Colon Cancer Complications: Adhesions and Bowel Incontinence Solutions
Understanding Nasal Sebaceous Cysts: Do They Require Surgery?
There is a polyp in the nose? I recently visited an otolaryngologist because I found a white, protruding growth inside my nose. The doctor told me it was a sebaceous cyst and mentioned that as long as it doesn't grow larger or cause pain, surgery is not necessary due to its ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Tseng: The exact cause of sebaceous cysts is unknown, and cases are reported year-round. These cysts are located in the dermis or subcutaneous fat layer of the skin. Due to the unclear etiology, it is speculated that they may form when dead keratinized cells from the epidermi...[Read More] Understanding Nasal Sebaceous Cysts: Do They Require Surgery?
Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Is It Relapse or Just Maintenance Therapy?
Multiple Myeloma Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my family member who has successfully undergone autologous stem cell transplantation for multiple myeloma. However, after six months of follow-up, the doctor wants to administer chemotherapy again (with an IgG level of 156...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Until now, regardless of any treatment, we hematologists must acknowledge that multiple myeloma is still considered "incurable." However, its treatment can significantly prolong life (for several years, perhaps 3-4 years, or even longer!). Therefore, in the treat...[Read More] Understanding Multiple Myeloma: Is It Relapse or Just Maintenance Therapy?
Understanding Symptoms After Grandpa's Fall: A Focus on Tumor Concerns
After Grandpa fell, he exhibited many symptoms? A few weeks ago, my grandfather fell and has been unable to bathe himself. He has also become a bit forgetful and has experienced chest pain. Later, he underwent blood tests, which showed an Immunoglobulin G level of 5870.00 mg/dL, ...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Your grandfather's IgG levels are elevated, which could indicate "multiple myeloma." However, since you have this lab report, the ordering physician likely has a suspicion. It would be best to follow the recommendations of the physician who ordered the tests...[Read More] Understanding Symptoms After Grandpa's Fall: A Focus on Tumor Concerns
Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Unilateral breast tissue asymmetry? Hello, my family member recently had a breast ultrasound, and the doctor mentioned that there is asymmetry in the tissue of one breast. He advised a follow-up appointment next week. What does unilateral breast tissue asymmetry mean? Is it a pre...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: The asymmetry in breast size does not necessarily correlate with breast cancer; it may be premature to make such a conclusion. Of course, the presence of microcalcifications is a concerning finding on mammography, but the definitive diagnosis of breast cancer ultimately re...[Read More] Understanding Unilateral Breast Tissue Asymmetry: What You Need to Know
Can TS-1 for Pancreatic Cancer Be Taken After Liquid Meals?
Consultation on the administration of TS-1? Is the pancreatic cancer medication TS-1 required to be taken after meals? If I am unable to eat, is it acceptable to take it after drinking Ensure liquid nutrition?
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Hello Mr. Jiang: 1. According to research, administering medication in a fasting state alters the bioavailability of oteracil potassium. Additionally, the phosphorylation of capecitabine is inhibited, which reduces its antitumor efficacy. Therefore, TS-1 should be taken after m...[Read More] Can TS-1 for Pancreatic Cancer Be Taken After Liquid Meals?
Understanding Tongue Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Swelling of the tongue, with the sensation that the tongue is being pushed upward? Hello Dr. Chen, First of all, thank you for your valuable time. I actually don't know how to clearly describe my problem. The first sensation I have is that I feel like the area of my jaw ne...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Kevin C / 33 years old / Male Happy New Year 1. I have always been unsure about which type of doctor I should consult for my issue to effectively address my problem. A: Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist. 2. I would also like to know if you could provide me with some insi...[Read More] Understanding Tongue Swelling: Causes and When to Seek Help
Is a Hard Lump in the Groin Caused by Eczema or Something Else?
Is the hard lump in the groin caused by eczema? Since 2015, I have noticed a lump in my groin area. Initially, I didn't suspect anything because it wasn't painful, but since it hasn't gone away, a friend asked if it could be a tumor or something similar. I research...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Mr. Zhao / 22 years old / Male Hello, Happy New Year! 1. Since 2015, I have noticed a hard lump in my groin that has not gone away. The lump does not cause any discomfort. A: The likelihood of it being benign is quite high. However, it is advisable to have it evaluated by a...[Read More] Is a Hard Lump in the Groin Caused by Eczema or Something Else?
Should Further Testing Be Done for Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis?
Is further examination or diagnosis necessary? Dear Dr. Chen, My mother is 57 years old and has been experiencing coughing symptoms regardless of whether she has a cold. In December 2014, she underwent ultrasound, fine needle aspiration, and MRI at a major hospital due to left-s...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Elaine / 33 years old / Female Hello: 1. The attending physician only informed my mother that the examination results indicated "malignant tumor or suspected malignant tumor, specifically papillary thyroid carcinoma." As you mentioned, it has already been confirmed as...[Read More] Should Further Testing Be Done for Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis?
Understanding Groin Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Inguinal mass? A few days ago, I noticed a hard lump about 2 centimeters long in my left groin area (near the pocket of my pants). It is not painful and can move slightly when pressed. I haven't experienced any other physical discomfort recently, although I have been severel...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Nick, 20 years old, male. A few days ago, a hard lump approximately 2 centimeters long appeared in the left groin area (near the pocket of his pants). It is not painful and can slightly move side to side when pressed. 1. Tumor 2. Whether it is a lymph node, benign, or malignant w...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Understanding Groin Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Inguinal mass? A few days ago, I noticed a hard lump about 2 centimeters long in my left groin area (near the pocket of my pants). It is not painful and can move slightly when pressed. Recently, I have not experienced any physical discomfort, but I have been severely sleep-depriv...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Nick, 20 years old, male, has developed a hard lump approximately 2 centimeters long in the left groin area (near the pocket of his pants). It is not painful and can slightly move side to side when pressed. If it were malignant, it would feel hard, be less mobile, and continue to...[Read More] Understanding Groin Lumps: What You Need to Know About Tumors
Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights into Tumor-Related Concerns
Blood Inquiry Hello Doctor, last week I went to the emergency room due to headaches and dizziness. The blood test report showed CBC 8.95 10^3/µL, SEG 26.3%, LYMPH 55.4%, MONO 10.7%, PDW 9.2 fL, and other values were within the standard range. I have researched hematological sympt...
Dr. Chen Yunfang Reply:
Hello: Based on the blood test results you provided, there does appear to be a hematological issue. The most significant concern is the elevated percentage of lymphocytes, which accounts for 55.4% of the total white blood cell count. This is abnormal, as the normal range for lymp...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights into Tumor-Related Concerns
Understanding Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma: Key Questions and Answers
Could you please provide more details about your question regarding papillary thyroid carcinoma? Hello Doctor: Could you please give me some good advice? I am feeling very anxious and worried. In November, I went to see a family physician due to discomfort and a rapid heartbeat. ...
Dr. Lai Yicheng Reply:
Ms. Lee: 1. We will confirm the true condition once the fine needle aspiration (FNA) report is available, which will help determine if it is indeed papillary thyroid carcinoma. 2. If the FNA report confirms papillary thyroid carcinoma, please do not worry; this type of cancer has...[Read More] Understanding Thyroid Papillary Carcinoma: Key Questions and Answers
Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights for Tumor Patients
Blood report Hello Doctor, due to headaches, dizziness, fatigue, and weakness, I went to the emergency room last week. The blood test results showed WBC 8.95 x 10^3/µL, PDW 9.2, F1SEG 26.3%, LYMPH 55.4%, MONO 10.7%, with other values at the standard margins. I researched online a...
Dr. Chen Sirong Reply:
Hello, I am 30 years old and female. Since middle school, my white blood cell count has always been elevated. I am unsure why I cannot donate blood each time. There is a family history of leukemia. Should I undergo further testing based on this report? Is this a hematology issue,...[Read More] Understanding Blood Test Results: Insights for Tumor Patients