Exploring Treatment Options for IDH-Mutant Glioma: A Patient's Guide
Is Dymista suitable for me? Hello Doctor: Below is my recent biopsy report. I was diagnosed with a grade II oligodendroglioma 18 years ago, and I have undergone surgery and radiation therapy. This time, the tumor has grown in the brainstem area, compressing the brainstem, and no ...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
I am not a brain tumor specialist; I recommend consulting a brain tumor specialist for an outpatient evaluation.[Read More] Exploring Treatment Options for IDH-Mutant Glioma: A Patient's Guide
Understanding MRI Results: Concerns About Pituitary Gland Changes
Brain MRI report Due to a high prolactin level of 54, I underwent an MRI, which reported "No definite brain mass including the sella region. Upward bulging appearance of the pituitary gland probably indicates some hypertrophy or physiological change." This second senten...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
The report has indicated that it is a physiological change, which is normal.[Read More] Understanding MRI Results: Concerns About Pituitary Gland Changes
Managing Blisters in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Blister issues? Hello, I am a patient with primary malignant liver tumor and currently undergoing chemotherapy. I have significant ascites, leading to edema in my lower extremities. Recently, I noticed a blister on the skin of my penis, which is very thin. It got accidentally com...
Dr. Yu Mingchang Reply:
Hello: For wounds related to hepatobiliary and gastrointestinal surgery, it is sufficient to apply ointment. Do not soak in water. Changhua Hospital cares about you.[Read More] Managing Blisters in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy
Can Brain Tumors Cause Pressure in the Nasal Cavity?
Can a brain tumor compress the nasal cavity? Since October 2021, I have been experiencing a feeling of pressure and tightness in the right nasal cavity (without pain). I have consulted with an otolaryngologist and a dentist to rule out issues such as nasopharyngeal cancer or dent...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Under normal circumstances, brain tumors do not compress the nasal cavity.[Read More] Can Brain Tumors Cause Pressure in the Nasal Cavity?
Understanding Pathology Reports: What Cancer Cells Dead Means After Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy followed by lumpectomy for breast cancer... Regarding the question about the "pathology report stating" that cancer cells are dead, what related issues should be considered? Hello, the relevant tests and biopsy indicated "triple-negative, 4 cm." A...
Dr. Chen Ronghong Reply:
Hello, Xiaowen. Based on your description, it seems that your tumor has responded very well to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, achieving "complete remission." In this situation, the resected tissue shows no cancer cells under the microscope, which is why the doctor would tell...[Read More] Understanding Pathology Reports: What Cancer Cells Dead Means After Chemotherapy
Risks and Aftereffects of Craniopharyngioma Surgery: What to Expect
Surgical issues Is the risk of surgery high for a craniopharyngioma after a craniotomy? What are the potential postoperative complications?
Dr. Lai Zhaokang Reply:
Hello: Brain tumor surgery carries certain risks. I want to help you, but the information you provided is too brief for a professional neurosurgeon. I recommend that you have a thorough discussion with your surgical team preparing for the brain tumor surgery. The issues you are f...[Read More] Risks and Aftereffects of Craniopharyngioma Surgery: What to Expect
Understanding Neurofibromas: Symptoms, Risks, and Connections to Glioblastoma
Neurofibromas are benign tumors that arise from the nerve sheath, primarily composed of Schwann cells, fibroblasts, and other cell types. They are commonly associated with neurofibromatos Hello, doctor. Previously, my mother was diagnosed with a primary glioblastoma after a brain...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
1. The two conditions are different diseases. 2. If you feel unwell, seek medical attention as soon as possible.[Read More] Understanding Neurofibromas: Symptoms, Risks, and Connections to Glioblastoma
Understanding Breast Fibroadenomas, Cysts, and IVF: Key Questions Answered
Fibroadenoma of the breast, cysts, and blisters, while simultaneously undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)? Hello Doctor: In early February of this year, I discovered that I had a total of seven lumps in both breasts, and their shapes were somewhat irregular. I first underwent...
Dr. Tang Yuxiong Reply:
Hello, Ms. Mina. I apologize for the wait. 1. There are three types of fibrocystic changes: simple, complex, and complicated. If it is the complicated type, minimally invasive excision is recommended. Based on the previous core needle biopsy and fine needle aspiration, it has b...[Read More] Understanding Breast Fibroadenomas, Cysts, and IVF: Key Questions Answered
Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Rectal bleeding There was a segment of my stool that was red. I don't recall eating anything like dragon fruit during those days. After that, I didn't experience any similar symptoms for two to three weeks. Should I see a doctor? I'm afraid that if I tell my family...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Bleeding during bowel movements should raise concerns about lesions around the anus or within the intestines; however, food can also alter the color of the stool. If there are concerns, it is advisable to first visit an outpatient clinic to check for issues such as hemorrhoids or...[Read More] Understanding Blood in Stool: When to Seek Medical Attention
Understanding Black Spots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Black spots in the stool? In the past two days, I have experienced difficulty with bowel movements. Today, I had a bowel movement with a normal amount, but the surface of the stool is covered with small black spots. What could this indicate? (I have never undergone a colonoscopy,...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Changes in stool color are mostly related to food, but bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract can also present as black stools. If concerned, it is advisable to first visit an outpatient clinic to check for issues such as hemorrhoids or anal fissures, and then perform a fecal occ...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots in Stool: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Fibrocystic Breast Changes: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Fibrocystic breast changes Hello Doctor, I would like to ask the following questions. Thank you for the annual health check-ups I've had. I learned that I have a 1 cm fibrocystic mass on the right side (which I cannot feel when I touch). This year, while showering, I acciden...
Dr. Tang Yuxiong Reply:
Hello Ms. BoBo: If you have concerns, you may consider a mammogram. According to the American College of Radiology guidelines, if the imaging is classified as BIRADS 1-3, follow-up every six months is recommended (with a malignancy risk of less than 2%). If it is BIRADS 4 or high...[Read More] Understanding Fibrocystic Breast Changes: When to Seek Further Evaluation
Anal Itching and Blood After Walking: Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
After walking, there is anal itching, and wiping the anus reveals yellowish fecal mucus with a small amount of light red blood streaks? Hello Doctor, I usually have normal bowel movements in terms of frequency and shape, and I have not noticed any visible blood in my stool or toi...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
There are many causes of anal itching, including the prolapse of internal hemorrhoids, which can lead to a sensation of mucus due to the eversion of the mucosa, minor anal fissures, allergies, and even less common causes such as parasites. If there are no accompanying abdominal o...[Read More] Anal Itching and Blood After Walking: Should You Get a Colonoscopy?
Post-Operative Concerns: Exercising with a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Postoperative Care for Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery Hello, doctor. At the beginning of 2020, I had a tumor in the fourth ventricle and underwent craniotomy for tumor resection. After the surgery, I developed symptoms of hydrocephalus and subsequently had a ventriculoperiton...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
In theory, some simple stretching exercises may not pose a problem, but if it involves intense or competitive sports, please consult the surgeon who performed your operation.[Read More] Post-Operative Concerns: Exercising with a Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Understanding Complications After Craniotomy: A Patient's Journey
Clamping surgery Hello Doctor: My mother underwent a craniotomy on March 15, with the surgery performed on the 16th. After the surgery, the doctor reported that it was very successful, with no bleeding and the aneurysm was clipped. She was then moved to the intensive care unit fo...
Dr. Zhang Junwei Reply:
Without detailed medical history, I cannot provide an answer. Please consult the surgeon.[Read More] Understanding Complications After Craniotomy: A Patient's Journey
Understanding Soft Lumps in the Calf: When to Seek Medical Advice
Subcutaneous tissue of the calf? Hello, doctor... A few days ago, I felt a soft, movable lump about 0.2 cm under the skin of my calf. I visited a dermatologist who said that such a small size makes it difficult to determine what it is, but mentioned that it is mostly benign becau...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Subcutaneous soft tissue tumors are mostly benign, such as sebaceous cysts, lipomas, and ganglion cysts. If they are small and mobile, they can be monitored initially. However, if there is a change in size or if symptoms develop, such as pain that affects mobility, it is advisabl...[Read More] Understanding Soft Lumps in the Calf: When to Seek Medical Advice
Understanding Breast Nipple Pain and Lumps: What You Need to Know
Nipple lump Hello, Doctor. Since the day before yesterday, I've been feeling a bit of pain when touching my left nipple, and it feels like there is a lump compared to the right side. Today, I visited a general surgeon who arranged for me to have an ultrasound in radiology. T...
Dr. Chen Bingze Reply:
Hello, there are two main reasons for enlarged axillary lymph nodes: benign or malignant. The more common benign causes include inflammation or, in some individuals, a congenital predisposition to larger lymph nodes. Malignant causes may include lymphoma or other malignant tumors...[Read More] Understanding Breast Nipple Pain and Lumps: What You Need to Know
Understanding Flat Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Flat-shaped stools? Hello, several years ago I had a colonoscopy that revealed a 0.8 cm colorectal adenoma, which was removed. The doctor advised follow-up in one year to check for a propensity to develop polyps. During the follow-up, no new polyps were found. Subsequently, durin...
Dr. Zhang Shuhao Reply:
Changes in stool shape caused by colorectal tumors are due to a narrowing of the intestinal lumen, which leads to the stool being squeezed through the constricted area, resulting in thinner stools. If the obstruction becomes more severe, symptoms such as abdominal pain and diarrh...[Read More] Understanding Flat Stool: Causes and When to Seek Medical Advice
Challenges in Healing Anal Fistula Post-Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Postoperative non-healing of anal fistula? Hello, Doctor! Here is the background: My mother was diagnosed with rectal cancer around 2019 (very close to the anus). The first physician mentioned that the tumor was too close to the anal sphincter, which would necessitate a permanent...
Dr. Ke Fangxu Reply:
1. Low rectal cancer, after radiation therapy and surgery, has a high probability of developing a rectovaginal fistula. Once formed, it is difficult to heal because radiation therapy can affect local blood circulation, making the fistula less likely to close. 2. The discharge m...[Read More] Challenges in Healing Anal Fistula Post-Surgery: A Patient's Journey
Understanding a Lump in Your Armpit: Causes and Concerns
A lump in the armpit? Hello doctor, a few days ago while taking a shower, I suddenly felt a lump in my armpit (slightly towards the arm in the middle fold). It's about 1 cm in size, and starting the next day, it began to itch when I touched it. Upon closer inspection, I can ...
Dr. Li Zhonghuai Reply:
Hello! Most of the cases are inflamed sebaceous cysts. It is recommended to seek medical treatment. Take care! Changhua Hospital cares about you![Read More] Understanding a Lump in Your Armpit: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Anal Masses: Causes and When to Seek Help
Perianal mass Hello doctor, I would like to ask about a small lump that has recently appeared next to my left anal area. The skin looks slightly bluish-purple, and there is no pain when I touch or press on it. Could this be a tumor or something else?
Dr. Xu Kaixi Reply:
Based on your description, the perianal lump may be a thrombosed hemorrhoid. If there is no significant pain, it indicates that there is no inflammation, and theoretically, it will resolve on its own over time. To confirm the diagnosis, please visit a hospital for an examination.[Read More] Understanding Anal Masses: Causes and When to Seek Help