Author Archives: Dr. Li

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About Dr. Li

I am a professional surgeon based in Beijing, China.

What Are the Symptoms of Vascular Tumors

Vascular tumors are abnormal growths that originate from blood or lymphatic vessels. Their symptoms depend on location, size, growth speed, and whether they are benign or malignant. Common manifestations include: Visible skin changesRed-to-purple raised patches, nodules, or “strawberry” marks that may enlarge rapidly during infancy and then slowly regress . Localized swelling or lumpA soft or firm mass under the skin or within muscles that can expand and distort nearby tissues . Pain or tendernessIntermittent aching or constant sharp pain if the tumor presses on nerves, ulcerates, or becomes thrombosed . Bleeding or ulcerationSuperficial lesions may crack and bleed with... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is often called a “silent killer” because early tumors rarely cause clear warning signs. Symptoms usually appear only after the cancer has grown large or spread, but the following clues should never be ignored: Upper-abdominal or back painA dull ache or pressure that starts deep in the upper abdomen and radiates to the mid-back is common. The pain may worsen after eating or when lying flat and does not respond to usual back-care measures. Unexplained weight loss and early satietyPatients frequently notice a rapid drop in body weight without dieting. They feel full after a few bites because... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer?

Thyroid cancer is usually asymptomatic in early stages and often discovered incidentally. As the tumor enlarges or invades adjacent structures, the following may develop: Painless neck lumpMost common first sign—unilateral, firm, poorly mobile on swallowing, slowly but steadily enlarging . HoarsenessPersistent and unrelenting hoarseness due to recurrent laryngeal nerve invasion and vocal-cord palsy . DysphagiaCompression or invasion of the oesophageal entrance causes globus sensation and progressive difficulty swallowing solids . DyspnoeaTracheal compression or intraluminal growth produces inspiratory stridor and orthopnoea that worsen when lying flat . Cervical lymph-node swellingFirm, matted nodes in the lateral neck often indicate regional metastasis .... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Acute Appendicitis?

Acute appendicitis results from luminal obstruction followed by bacterial overgrowth and rapid inflammation. Cardinal features in chronological order are: Migratory painVague periumbilical or upper-abdominal discomfort migrates to the right lower quadrant within 4–6 h and intensifies with movement, coughing or palpation. Gastro-intestinal upsetAnorexia, nausea and often vomiting; loose stools or constipation may mislead toward gastroenteritis. FeverLow-grade 37–38 °C early, rising >38.5 °C as inflammation advances; elderly or immunocompromised patients may remain afebrile. Peritoneal signsMaximal tenderness at McBurney point, rebound pain, guarding and hypo-active bowel sounds indicate parietal peritoneal irritation. Systemic toxicityTachycardia, malaise, thirst; high fever with pallor or hypotension suggests... Learn more

What Are the Symptoms of Lymphadenitis?

Lymphadenitis is an inflammatory condition of lymph nodes caused by bacterial, viral, or other pathogens, usually secondary to infections of the skin, mouth, or respiratory tract. Common manifestations include: Enlarged lymph nodesNodes range from pea- to bean-sized or larger, feel firm or rubbery, and are well-defined in acute stages; chronic nodes may be slightly adherent . Pain and tendernessMost prominent in acute phase; palpation, head turning, arm lifting, or chewing can aggravate discomfort . Skin changesOverlying skin becomes red, warm, and edematous; severe cases mimic cellulitis . Fluctuation and abscess formationCentral necrosis liquefies, producing a fluid-filled cavity with throbbing pain... Learn more