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Irestorm E, Schouten-van Meeteren AYN, van Gorp M, Twisk JWR, van Santen HM, Partanen M, Grootenhuis MA, van Litsenburg RRL. The development of fatigue after treatment for pediatric brain tumors does not differ between tumor locations. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2024; 71:e31028. [PMID: 38698502 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.31028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children and adolescents treated for a brain tumor suffer from more fatigue than survivors of other types of childhood cancer. As tumor location might be predictive of fatigue, our aim was to investigate the longitudinal development of fatigue in children with brain tumors and risk factors for fatigue separately for different tumor locations. METHODS Fatigue was assessed 1235 times for 425 participants. Self-report versions of PedsQL Multidimensional Fatigue Scale were used to repeatedly assess fatigue from the end of treatment up to 8 years later. Mixed models were used to analyze fatigue over time and determinants separately for infratentorial (N = 205), supratentorial hemispheric (N = 91), and supratentorial midline tumors (N = 129). RESULTS Cognitive fatigue worsened with time, while sleep-rest and general fatigue first decreased and then increased. There was no difference in fatigue between the tumor locations, but the risk factors differed when stratified by location. Radiotherapy was associated with more fatigue for infratentorial tumors, and centralization of care was associated with less fatigue for the supratentorial midline tumors. For supratentorial hemispheric tumors, female sex was associated with more fatigue. Higher parental education was associated with less fatigue regardless of tumor location. CONCLUSIONS The development of fatigue seems to be more related to sociodemographic and treatment variables than to tumor location. Healthcare providers need to be aware that fatigue may develop in the years following end of treatment, and that patients with a low/middle educational family background might be more vulnerable and in need of targeted support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elin Irestorm
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | - Marloes van Gorp
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jos W R Twisk
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, Location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Hanneke M van Santen
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, UMCU, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marita Partanen
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martha A Grootenhuis
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Raphaele R L van Litsenburg
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Moscato EL, Albee MV, Anil A, Hocking MC. The interaction of family functioning and disease- and treatment-related factors on quality of life for children after cancer. J Psychosoc Oncol 2024:1-13. [PMID: 38831549 DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2024.2354298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Children with cancer experience low quality of life (QOL), yet heterogeneity underscores a need to understand how risk and resilience factors interact. This study evaluated if family functioning relates to QOL differentially depending on diagnosis and treatment intensity. METHODS Participants included children (ages 8-14) who completed treatment within six months for either brain tumor (BT; n = 42) or non-central nervous system solid tumor (ST; n = 29). Caregivers and children rated QOL and family functioning. Treatment intensity was categorized as low, moderate, or high. Cross-informant moderation models tested hypothesized interactions. RESULTS Child-reported family functioning significantly interacted with diagnosis and treatment intensity in models of caregiver-reported QOL. More maladaptive family functioning was associated with reduced QOL for children with BT and moderately-intense treatments. CONCLUSIONS Children with BT and moderate treatment intensities are sensitive to family functioning, highlighting an at-risk group to target for family-level intervention. Future work should evaluate these associations longitudinally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Moscato
- Center for Biobehavioral Health, The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - May V Albee
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ashley Anil
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Matthew C Hocking
- Division of Oncology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Choi H, Soliman AS, Al Mousa R, Yeh J, Khader J, Sultan I, Ibrahimi AK. Health-related quality of life of pediatric brain tumor survivors after treatment in Jordan. Neurooncol Pract 2024; 11:82-91. [PMID: 38222053 PMCID: PMC10785583 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npad054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The number of cancer survivors and survivorship are increasing. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) has not been widely studied in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). The aim of this study is to explore HRQOL of childhood brain tumor survivors and its determinants in Jordan. Methods Health-related quality of life information was collected from 80 patients treated at the King Hussein Cancer Center and their parents using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) Generic Core Scales questionnaire in Arabic. Multivariable linear OLS regression models were used to analyze correlates of HRQOL and compare differences between child- and parent-reported responses. Results Health-related quality of life scores reported by survivors and by parents were positively correlated on all subscales and total PedsQL scores (r = 0.59, P = .001). Survivors reported better HRQOL in cognitive subscale (β = 0.56, P = .03) and worse HRQOL in work subscale (β = 0.43, P = .04), but no significant differences in the physical, emotional, and social subscales and total PedsQL scores. Significant predictors of HRQOL reported by parents and by children were different. Supratentorial tumor location was associated with a 10.97-unit lower physical HRQOL score, and recurrence of tumors predicted a 17.5-unit lower total HRQOL score, indicating worse quality of life. Male gender (β = 14.9, P = .002) and diagnosis of hypopituitarism (β = 16.1, P = .03) were associated with better HRQOL. Furthermore, patients that only had radiotherapy treatment had better emotional HRQOL (β = 32.9, P = .006) compared to patients that had combined radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Conclusion This study provides evidence on determinants of HRQOL of pediatric brain tumor patients in Jordan. Future studies need to capitalize on the findings of this study to institute a system for regular assessment of quality of life of pediatric cancer patients in Jordan and other countries with similar health care systems and sociocultural backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Choi
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Amr S Soliman
- City University of New York, Medical School, New York, New York, USA
| | - Randa Al Mousa
- Department of Radiation Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan
| | - Jennifer Yeh
- Boston Children’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jamal Khader
- Department of Radiation Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan
| | - Iyad Sultan
- Department of Pediatric, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Kh Ibrahimi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, King Hussein Cancer Centre, Amman, Jordan
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Rüther M, Hagan AJ, Verity SJ. The role of CNS tumor location in health-related quality of life outcomes: A systematic review of supratentorial vs infratentorial tumors in childhood survivorship. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY. CHILD 2023:1-20. [PMID: 37851360 DOI: 10.1080/21622965.2023.2268776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Continued advancements in the treatment of pediatric brain tumors have resulted in a growing proportion of children surviving previously incurable diagnoses. However, survivors of pediatric brain tumors show reduced Health-Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) compared to healthy populations and non-CNS childhood cancer survivors. This review systematically evaluates the existing literature on the influence of supratentorial and infratentorial brain tumor locations on Health-Related Quality of Life outcomes in survivors of pediatric brain tumors. Five electronic databases were searched for relevant articles published between their inception and January 2022. A purpose-developed evaluative tool was constructed to assess the quality of eligible studies. 16 of the 5270 identified articles were included in this review (n = 1391). This review found little evidence relating to the impact of brain tumor location on HRQoL, with only one study finding a significant difference between supratentorial and infratentorial tumor survivors. Key limitations of the current evidence include poor statistical reporting, ambiguous construct definitions, and insufficient adjustment for confounds. Findings from this review show that recovery from a pediatric brain tumor extends beyond recovery post-treatment and that further study into the factors influencing survivor HRQoL, including the influence of tumor location, is necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marike Rüther
- Department of Paediatric Health Psychology, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Alexander James Hagan
- Department of Paediatric Health Psychology, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
| | - Sarah J Verity
- Department of Paediatric Health Psychology, Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
- Newcastle University Centre for Cancer, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Moscato EL, Fisher AP, Pillay-Smiley N, Salloum R, Wade SL. Caregivers matter: Neurological vulnerability for pediatric brain tumor survivors. Neurooncol Pract 2023; 10:418-428. [PMID: 37720398 PMCID: PMC10502790 DOI: 10.1093/nop/npad010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) are at risk of worse quality of life (QOL) due to the impact of neurotoxic treatments on the developing nervous system. Parenting factors such as protectiveness have been linked to worse QOL in childhood cancer survivors generally, but have yet to be explored for PBTS. We examined whether parenting behaviors moderated the association between neurotoxic treatment and QOL for PBTS. Methods PBTS (n = 40; ages 10-25) and their caregivers (n = 47) completed measures of parenting behaviors including warmth (support/connectedness) and psychological control (protectiveness) and QOL. We divided the sample into moderate/high and low neurotoxicity groups based on chart review using the Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Rating of Treatment Intensity and examined moderator effects. Results Survivor-reported primary caregiver warmth moderated the relationship between neurotoxicity and caregiver-reported QOL. Moderate/high neurotoxicity was associated with lower caregiver-reported QOL only when survivor-reported primary caregiver warmth was low, P = .02. Similar results were found for survivor-reported QOL. Caregiver-reported psychological control moderated the association between neurotoxicity and caregiver-reported QOL such that neurotoxicity only affected QOL at high levels of psychological control, P = .01. Conclusions Heightened associations between parenting and QOL in the context of neurotoxic treatments underscore the need to better support PBTS. Findings are consistent with research suggesting that family factors may be particularly important for children with other neurological insults. Limitations include cross-sectional design and a small/heterogeneous clinical sample with low ethnic/racial diversity. Prospective studies are needed to refine evidence-based screening and develop psychosocial intervention strategies to optimize QOL for PBTS and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Moscato
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Allison P Fisher
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Natasha Pillay-Smiley
- Cancer and Blood Diseases Institute, The Cure Starts Now Foundation Brain Tumor Center; Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Ralph Salloum
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Nationwide Children’s Hospital; Department of Pediatrics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
| | - Shari L Wade
- Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center; Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Zhu K, Yang W, Ying Z, Cai Y, Peng X, Zhang N, Sun H, Ji Y, Ge M. Long-term postoperative quality of life in childhood survivors with cerebellar mutism syndrome. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1130331. [PMID: 36910828 PMCID: PMC9998537 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1130331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To investigate the long-term quality of life (QoL) of children with cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS) and explore the risk factors for a low QoL. Procedure This cross-sectional study investigated children who underwent posterior fossa surgery using an online Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory questionnaire. CMS and non-CMS patients were included to identify QoL predictors. Results Sixty-nine patients were included (male, 62.3%), 22 of whom had CMS. The mean follow-up time was 45.2 months. Children with CMS had a significantly lower mean QoL score (65.3 vs. 83.7, p < 0.001) and subdomain mean scores (physical; 57.8 vs. 85.3, p < 0.001; social: 69.5 vs. 85.1, p = 0.001; academic: p = 0.001) than those without CMS, except for the emotional domain (78.0 vs. 83.7, p = 0.062). Multivariable analysis revealed that CMS (coefficient = -14.748.61, p = 0.043), chemotherapy (coefficient = -7.629.82, p = 0.013), ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement (coefficient = -10.14, p = 0.024), and older age at surgery (coefficient = -1.1830, p = 0.007) were independent predictors of low total QoL scores. Physical scores were independently associated with CMS (coefficient = -27.4815.31, p = 0.005), VP shunt placement (coefficient = -12.86, p = 0.025), and radiotherapy (coefficient = -13.62, p = 0.007). Emotional score was negatively associated with age at surgery (coefficient = -1.92, p = 0.0337) and chemotherapy (coefficient = -9.11, p = 0.003). Social scores were negatively associated with male sex (coefficient = -13.68, p = 0.001) and VP shunt placement (coefficient = -1.36, p = 0.005), whereas academic scores were negatively correlated with chemotherapy (coefficient = -17.45, p < 0.001) and age at surgery (coefficient = -1.92, p = 0.002). Extent of resection (coefficient = 13.16, p = 0.021) was a good predictor of higher academic scores. Conclusion CMS results in long-term neurological and neuropsychological deficits, negatively affecting QoL, and warranting early rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaiyi Zhu
- Department of Cardiology, Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, Taiyuan, China.,Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Yang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Zesheng Ying
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yingjie Cai
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - XiaoJiao Peng
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Nijia Zhang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Hailang Sun
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Yuanqi Ji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Ge
- Department of Neurosurgery, Beijing Children's Hospital, Capital Medical University, National Center for Children's Health, Beijing, China
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Can We Compare the Health-Related Quality of Life of Childhood Cancer Survivors Following Photon and Proton Radiation Therapy? A Systematic Review. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14163937. [PMID: 36010929 PMCID: PMC9405962 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14163937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Proton radiation therapy is a radiation oncology innovation expected to produce superior health-related quality of life (HRQoL) outcomes for children with cancer, compared to conventional photon radiation therapy. The review aim is to identify if clinical evidence exists to support the anticipated HRQoL improvements for children receiving proton radiation therapy. HRQoL outcomes of 1986 childhood cancer survivors are described. There is insufficient quality evidence to compare HRQoL outcomes between proton and photon radiation therapy. Therefore, the current state of the literature does not conclude that proton radiation therapy produces superior HRQoL outcomes for childhood cancer survivors. Despite recommendations, no evidence of routine HRQoL assessment using patient-reported outcomes in paediatric radiation oncology are identified. Further rigorous collection and reporting of HRQoL data is essential to improve patient outcomes, and to adequately compare HRQoL between radiation therapy modalities. Abstract Paediatric cancer patients have a risk of late side effects after curative treatment. Proton radiation therapy (PRT) has the potential to reduce the incidence and severity of toxicities produced by conventional photon radiation therapy (XRT), which may improve the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children. This systematic review aimed to identify the evidence of HRQoL outcomes in childhood cancer survivors following XRT and PRT. Medline, Embase, and Scopus were systematically searched. Thirty studies were analysed, which described outcomes of 1986 childhood cancer survivors. Most studies (n = 24) described outcomes for children with a central nervous system (CNS) tumour, four studies reported outcomes for children with a non-CNS tumour, and two studies combined CNS and non-CNS diagnoses within a single cohort. No studies analysed routine HRQoL collection during paediatric radiation oncology clinical practice. There is insufficient quality evidence to compare HRQoL outcomes between XRT and PRT. Therefore, the current state of the literature does not conclude that PRT produces superior HRQoL outcomes for childhood cancer survivors. Standardised clinical implementation of HRQoL assessment using patient-reported outcomes is recommended to contribute to improvements in clinical care whilst assisting the progression of knowledge comparing XRT and PRT.
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Moscato E, Patronick J, Wade SL. Family functioning and adaptation following pediatric brain tumor: A systematic review. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2022; 69:e29470. [PMID: 34842339 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.29470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTS) experience psychosocial difficulties and poor quality of life (QOL). Family functioning may be adversely impacted by the stress of diagnosis and associated symptoms, which may, in turn, affect PBTS outcomes. The objective of this study was to complete a systematic review of family functioning and psychosocial outcomes in PBTS. METHODS We conducted systematic searches of PubMed and PsychInfo. Full-text articles (n = 324) were screened and 14 were included. A risk-of-bias assessment was conducted to evaluate the quality of study conclusions. RESULTS Studies examined associations of family functioning with adaptive, social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes, and QOL. More adaptive family functioning (cohesiveness, effective communication, lower conflict) was associated with better PBTS outcomes. Studies were limited by heterogeneous/small samples and cross-sectional designs. CONCLUSIONS Results provide preliminary support for the relationship between family functioning and psychosocial outcomes. Common outcome measures and prospective research designs can further advance understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Moscato
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Jamie Patronick
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Shari L Wade
- Department of Psychology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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Depression, anxiety and health-related quality of life in paediatric intracranial germ cell tumor survivors. Health Qual Life Outcomes 2022; 20:9. [PMID: 35022038 PMCID: PMC8753919 DOI: 10.1186/s12955-021-01911-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Little is known about depression and anxiety among paediatric intracranial germ cell tumour (iGCT) survivors. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors associated with depression, anxiety and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in paediatric iGCT survivors. Methods We recruited 200 iGCT patients (and their parents) from Beijing Tiantan Hospital and assessed their HRQoL using the Paediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) 4.0 Generic Core Scales. The Children’s Depression Inventory, Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders, and Symptom Checklist 90 were used to evaluate depression and anxiety. The results were analysed based on disease recurrence, tumour location and treatment strategies. Results Survivors with recurrent tumours had worse HRQoL scores than those with non-recurrent tumours. Patients with tumours involving both the suprasellar and basal ganglia regions had the worst HRQoL scores. A large proportion of survivors had depression or anxiety. Both depression and anxiety scores were highly correlated with the HRQoL emotional functioning scores. The parent proxy-reports (PPR) and child self-reports were highly correlated in all domains. Conclusions This study demonstrated the clinical factors affecting paediatric iGCT survivors’ depression, anxiety, and HRQoL. Therefore, psychological interventions should be implemented. It also suggests that the PedsQL PPR would be helpful for routine screening. Intracranial germ cell tumours (iGCT) are relatively rare brain tumours that predominantly occur in paediatric patients. Since the survival rate of patients with iGCT has been improving and the burden of long-term morbidity is substantial, promoting the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and reducing depression and anxiety among its survivors is of critical concern. Although many studies have been published on factors related to the HRQoL of iGCT survivors, little is known about their long-term emotional function. This study demonstrated the clinical factors that affect depression, anxiety, and the HRQoL and the associations between the HRQoL and depression/anxiety in 200 paediatric iGCT patients. We found that patients with recurrent tumours had a worse HRQoL. Tumour locations also played a critical role in that tumour involving the basal ganglia were associated with worse outcomes. A large proportion of paediatric iGCT survivors had depression or anxiety in all the groups. Depression/anxiety scores were highly correlated with the HRQoL emotional functioning scores. In addition, we found that the PedsQL parent proxy report is appropriate in most cases when it is not possible to obtain child self-reports. These findings provide evidence to support the optimization of treatment strategies for iGCTs, such as the provision of psychological interventions.
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Eaton BR, Goldberg S, Tarbell NJ, Lawell MP, Gallotto SL, Weyman EA, Kuhlthau KA, Ebb DH, MacDonald SM, Yock TI. Long-term health-related quality of life in pediatric brain tumor survivors receiving proton radiotherapy at <4 years of age. Neuro Oncol 2021; 22:1379-1387. [PMID: 32064512 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noaa042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this analysis is to report long-term health-related quality of life (HRQoL) among brain tumor survivors treated with proton therapy (PRT) at a very young age. METHODS Fifty-nine children <4 years old received PRT between 2000 and 2011. Forty families participated. HRQoL was assessed by child self-report (CSR; age ≥5) and parent proxy report (PPR; age 2+) using the PedsQL Core. RESULTS The median age was 2.5 years (range, 0.3-3.8) at PRT and 9.1 years (5.5-18) at last follow-up. The most common diagnoses were ependymoma (n = 22) and medulloblastoma (n = 7). Median follow-up is 6.7 years (3-15.4). Follow-up mean CSR and PPR scores were: total core (78.4 and 72.9), physical (82.9 and 75.2), psychosocial (76.0 and 71.6), emotional (74.4 and 70.7), social (81.2 and 75.1), and school (72.4 and 69.9). Parent-reported HRQoL fell within a previously defined range for healthy children in 37.5% of patients, and for children with severe health conditions in 45% of patients. PPR HRQoL was stable from baseline to last follow-up among all domains except for social functioning. History of gastrostomy tube was significantly associated with poorer CSR and PPR HRQoL on multivariable analysis. Ninety percent of children functioned in a regular classroom, 14 (36%) used a classroom aid, 9 (23%) used an outside tutor, and 18 (46%) had an individualized education plan. CONCLUSION Long-term HRQoL among brain tumor survivors treated with PRT at a very young age is variable, with over a third achieving HRQoL levels commensurate with healthy children. KEY POINTS 1. One third of survivors reported long-term HRQoL scores comparable to those of healthy children.2. Treatment for hydrocephalus or a feeding tube was associated with significantly lower HRQoL.3. Total core HRQoL scores remained stable from baseline to last follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bree R Eaton
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Saveli Goldberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nancy J Tarbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Miranda P Lawell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sara L Gallotto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth A Weyman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Karen A Kuhlthau
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David H Ebb
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shannon M MacDonald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Torunn I Yock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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11
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Pilotto C, Liguoro I, Scaravetti S, Passone E, D'Agostini S, Tuniz F, Skrap M, Cogo P. Risk Factors of Persistent Hydrocephalus in Children with Brain Tumor: A Retrospective Analysis. Pediatr Neurosurg 2021; 56:205-212. [PMID: 33784707 DOI: 10.1159/000513732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECT Hydrocephalus is one of the main complications of brain tumors in children, being present in about 50% of cases at the time of the tumor diagnosis and persisting up to 10-40% of cases after surgical resection. This is a single-institution retrospective study on the variables that may predict the need for treatment of persistent hydrocephalus in pediatric patients presenting with a brain tumor. METHODS Retrospective case note review of 43 newly diagnosed brain tumors in children referred between April 2012 and January 2018 to our regional pediatric neuro-oncology service was carried out. Diagnosis of hydrocephalus was carried out using both preoperative and postoperative MRI to determine Evans' index (EI) and the fronto-occipital horn ratio (FOHR) from each scan. Simple logistic regression was used to analyze categorical variables as appropriate. A p value <0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS Forty-three children were analyzed, 26 males and 17 females with a median age at diagnosis 10.4 years (IQR: 5.2-13.5). Hydrocephalus was present in 22/43 children (51%) preoperatively; in 8/22 children (36%) with hydrocephalus undergoing tumor resection, hydrocephalus persisted also in the postoperative period. An EI >0.34 (p = 0.028) and an FOHR >0.46 (p = 0.05) before surgery were associated with a higher prevalence of persistent hydrocephalus and therefore to the need for a cerebrospinal fluid drain device in the postoperative phase. CONCLUSION Preoperative identification of children at risk for developing persistent hydrocephalus would avoid delays in planning the permanent cerebrospinal fluid drain devices. This study finds that an EI >0.34 and an FOHR >0.46 at diagnosis could impact on the therapeutic management of children with hydrocephalus associated with brain tumors. Prospective and larger-scale studies are needed to standardize this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pilotto
- Department of Medicine, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Pediatric Clinic, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Ilaria Liguoro
- Department of Medicine, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy.,Pediatric Clinic, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Eva Passone
- Pediatric Clinic, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Serena D'Agostini
- Department of Neuroradiology, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Tuniz
- Department of Neurosurgery, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Miran Skrap
- Department of Neurosurgery, ASUIUD S Maria Della Misericordia, University Hospital, Udine, Italy
| | - Paola Cogo
- Pediatric Clinic, DAME, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
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12
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Ferro MA, Lipman EL, Van Lieshout RJ, Boyle MH, Gorter JW, MacMillan HL, Gonzalez A, Georgiades K. Mental-Physical Multimorbidity in Youth: Associations with Individual, Family, and Health Service Use Outcomes. Child Psychiatry Hum Dev 2019; 50:400-410. [PMID: 30311039 DOI: 10.1007/s10578-018-0848-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Prevalence, correlates, and outcomes of youth with comorbid mental and physical conditions (i.e., multimorbidity) were examined in this cross-sectional study. Participants were 92 youth (14.5 years [SD 2.7]; 69.6% female) and their parents. Mental disorder was assessed using structured interviews and physical health using a standardized questionnaire. Twenty-five percent of youth had multimorbidity and no child or parent demographic or health characteristics were correlated with multimorbidity. Youth with multimorbidity reported similar quality of life and better family functioning [B = - 4.80 (- 8.77, - 0.83)] compared to youth with mental disorder only (i.e., non-multimorbid). Youth with multimorbidity had lower odds of receiving inpatient services [OR = 0.20 (0.05, 0.85)] and shorter stays in hospital for their mental health [OR = 0.74 (0.57, 0.91)] over the past year. Family functioning was found to mediate the association between youth multimorbidity and length of stay [αβ = 0.14 (0.01, 0.27)]. Findings reinforce the need for family-centered youth mental health care.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Ferro
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada.
| | - E L Lipman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - R J Van Lieshout
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - M H Boyle
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - J W Gorter
- Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - H L MacMillan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - A Gonzalez
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
| | - K Georgiades
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
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13
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Bell H, Ownsworth T, Lloyd O, Sheeran N, Chambers S. A systematic review of factors related to children's quality of life and mental health after brain tumor. Psychooncology 2018; 27:2317-2326. [PMID: 30071150 DOI: 10.1002/pon.4850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Brain tumor has been found to have a major impact on children's quality of life (QOL); yet, the subjective impact of the illness is still not well understood. This review aimed to investigate factors related to children's subjective well-being (SWB), or self-reported QOL and mental health after brain tumor. A further aim was to determine the consistency between child and parent-proxy ratings of children's SWB and common factors associated with both child and parent-proxy ratings. METHODS A systematic search of PsycINFO, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Embase, and Scopus was conducted from 1980 to May 2018 to identify eligible studies. Methodological quality of these studies was assessed by 2 independent reviewers. RESULTS Twenty studies investigated factors related to children's self-reported mental health or QOL. Fourteen studies examined these factors from the perspectives of both children and their parents. Overall, risk factors for poor QOL included infratentorial tumors, radiation, hydrocephalus, lower IQ, and behavioral problems. Only 5 studies examined mental health outcomes, the findings of which were mixed. Relatively few studies examined psychosocial variables related to children's SWB. CONCLUSIONS Although several risk factors for poor QOL were identified, further research investigating mental health outcomes and the influence of psychosocial factors on children's SWB is needed to guide support interventions for pediatric brain tumor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Bell
- School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Tamara Ownsworth
- School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Owen Lloyd
- School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Queensland Paediatric Rehabilitation Service, Lady Cilento Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,School of Psychology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Nicola Sheeran
- School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Suzanne Chambers
- School of Applied Psychology and Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.,Cancer Council Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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14
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Kamran SC, Goldberg SI, Kuhlthau KA, Lawell MP, Weyman EA, Gallotto SL, Hess CB, Huang MS, Friedmann AM, Abrams AN, MacDonald SM, Pulsifer MB, Tarbell NJ, Ebb DH, Yock TI. Quality of life in patients with proton-treated pediatric medulloblastoma: Results of a prospective assessment with 5-year follow-up. Cancer 2018; 124:3390-3400. [PMID: 29905942 DOI: 10.1002/cncr.31575] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Revised: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To the authors' knowledge, health-related quality of life (HRQOL) outcomes are not well described in patients with medulloblastoma. The use of proton radiotherapy (RT) may translate into an improved HRQOL. In the current study, the authors report long-term HRQOL in patients with proton-treated pediatric medulloblastoma. METHODS The current study was a prospective cohort HRQOL study of patients with medulloblastoma who were treated with proton RT and enrolled between August 5, 2002, and October 8, 2015. Both child report and parent-proxy report Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) surveys were collected at baseline during RT and annually thereafter (score range on surveys of 0-100, with higher scores indicating better HRQOL). Patients were dichotomized by clinical/treatment variables and subgroups were compared. Mixed-model analysis was performed to determine the longitudinal trajectory of PedsQL scores. The Student t test was used to compare long-term HRQOL measures with published means from a healthy child population. RESULTS Survey data were evaluable for 116 patients with a median follow-up of 5 years (range, 1-10.6 years); the median age at the time of diagnosis was 7.6 years (range, 2.1-18.1 years). At baseline, children reported a total core score (TCS) of 65.9, which increased by 1.8 points annually (P<.001); parents reported a TCS of 59.1, which increased by 2.0 points annually. Posterior fossa syndrome adversely affected baseline scores, but these scores significantly improved with time. At the time of last follow-up, children reported a TCS of 76.3, which was 3.3 points lower than that of healthy children (P = .09); parents reported a TCS of 69, which was 11.9 points lower than that of parents of healthy children (P<.001). Increased follow-up time from diagnosis correlated with improved HRQOL scores. CONCLUSIONS HRQOL scores appear to increase over time after treatment in children treated with proton RT for medulloblastoma but remain lower compared with those of parent-proxy reports as well as published means from a healthy normative sample of children. Additional follow-up may translate into continued improvements in HRQOL. Cancer 2018. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophia C Kamran
- Harvard Radiation Oncology Program, Boston, Massachusetts.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Saveli I Goldberg
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Karen A Kuhlthau
- Department of Pediatrics, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Miranda P Lawell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Elizabeth A Weyman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Sara L Gallotto
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Clayton B Hess
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Mary S Huang
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Alison M Friedmann
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Annah N Abrams
- Department of Child Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Shannon M MacDonald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Margaret B Pulsifer
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nancy J Tarbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David H Ebb
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Torunn I Yock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
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15
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Quast LF, Phillips PC, Li Y, Kazak AE, Barakat LP, Hocking MC. A prospective study of family predictors of health-related quality of life in pediatric brain tumor survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2018; 65:e26976. [PMID: 29350456 PMCID: PMC5911210 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26976] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The objective of this study was to examine prospectively the associations between family functioning at the end of tumor-directed treatment and the health-related quality of life (HRQL) of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) approximately 9 months later. PROCEDURE Thirty-five PBTS (age 6-16 years) and their mothers completed measures of family functioning and survivor HRQL within 5 months of completing tumor-directed therapy (baseline) and again approximately 9 months later (follow-up). RESULTS Survivor-rated general family functioning at baseline significantly predicted mother proxy- and self-reported survivor HRQL at follow-up when controlling for survivor HRQL at baseline and relevant demographic and treatment-related variables. CONCLUSIONS Family functioning is a key factor contributing to survivor HRQL and should be screened throughout the course of tumor-directed treatment. Psychosocial interventions directed toward improving general family functioning may improve survivor well-being following the completion of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Peter C. Phillips
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Yimei Li
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Anne E. Kazak
- Nemours Children’s Health System and Sidney Kimmel School of Medicine at Thomas Jefferson University
| | - Lamia P. Barakat
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
| | - Matthew C. Hocking
- The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania
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16
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Pinheiro LC, McFatrich M, Lucas N, Walker JS, Withycombe JS, Hinds PS, Sung L, Tomlinson D, Freyer DR, Mack JW, Baker JN, Reeve BB. Child and adolescent self-report symptom measurement in pediatric oncology research: a systematic literature review. Qual Life Res 2017; 27:291-319. [PMID: 28879501 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-017-1692-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/24/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Previous work in pediatric oncology has found that clinicians and parents tend to under-report the frequency and severity of treatment-related symptoms compared to child self-report. As such, there is a need to identify high-quality self-report instruments to be used in pediatric oncology research studies. This study's objective was to conduct a systematic literature review of existing English language instruments used to measure self-reported symptoms in children and adolescents undergoing cancer treatment. METHODS A comprehensive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE/PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and PsycINFO to identify relevant articles published through November 10, 2016. Using pre-specified inclusion/exclusion criteria, six trained reviewers carefully screened abstracts and full-text articles for eligibility. RESULTS There were 7738 non-duplicate articles identified in the literature search. Forty articles met our eligibility criteria, and within these articles, there were 38 self-report English symptom instruments. Most studies evaluated only cross-sectional psychometric properties, such as reliability or validity. Ten studies assessed an instrument's responsiveness or ability to detect changes in symptoms over time. Eight instruments met our criteria for use in future longitudinal pediatric oncology studies. CONCLUSIONS This systematic review aids pediatric oncology researchers in identifying and selecting appropriate symptom measures with strong psychometric evidence for their studies. Enhancing the child's voice in pediatric oncology research studies allows us to better understand the impact of cancer and its treatment on the lives of children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Pinheiro
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, 10064, USA.
| | - Molly McFatrich
- Center for Health Measurement, Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Nicole Lucas
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Jennifer S Walker
- Health Sciences Library, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | | | - Pamela S Hinds
- Department of Nursing Research and Quality Outcomes, Children's National Health System, Department of Pediatrics, George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Lillian Sung
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada.,Division of Haematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Deborah Tomlinson
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - David R Freyer
- Children's Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Justin N Baker
- Division of Quality of Life and Palliative Care, Department of Oncology, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Bryce B Reeve
- Center for Health Measurement, Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
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17
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Barrera M, Atenafu EG, Schulte F, Bartels U, Sung L, Janzen L, Chung J, Cataudella D, Hancock K, Saleh A, Strother D, McConnell D, Downie A, Hukin J, Zelcer S. Determinants of quality of life outcomes for survivors of pediatric brain tumors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2017; 64. [PMID: 28296130 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.26481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Revised: 01/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To describe the quality of life (QOL) of pediatric brain tumor survivors (PBTSs) prospectively and to identify potential medical, personal and family contextual factors associated with QOL. METHODS Ninety-one PBTSs (8-16 years) who were off treatment and attending a regular classroom participated. Self- and caregiver-proxy-reported on QOL at baseline, 2 and 8 months. At baseline, cognitive, executive function, attention and memory, medical and demographics information were attained. RESULTS Significant improvements over time in PBTS's emotional QOL were self- and proxy-reported (P < 0.01) and global QOL proxy-reported (P = 0.04). Receiving cranial irradiation therapy (CIT) and poor behavioral regulation predicted poor global QOL scores reported by both informants (P < 0.017). Poor behavioral regulation also predicted poor self-reported school functioning, and poor proxy-reported emotional and social QOL (P < 0.037). Boys reported better emotional QOL (P = 0.029), and PBTSs over 11 years old were reported to have better emotion and school-related QOL. Finally, being non-White and having low income predicted poor self-reported global and emotional QOL (P = 0.041). CONCLUSIONS Receiving CIT, having poor behavioral regulation, being a female, under 11 years old and coming from low-income, non-White families place PBTSs at risk for poor QOL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maru Barrera
- Department of Psychology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Eshetu G Atenafu
- Department of Biostatistics, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fiona Schulte
- Department of Psychology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Ute Bartels
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lillian Sung
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Janzen
- Department of Psychology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joanna Chung
- Department of Psychology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Danielle Cataudella
- Department of Psychology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kelly Hancock
- Department of Psychology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Amani Saleh
- Department of Psychology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Douglas Strother
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, Alberta Children's Hospital, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Dina McConnell
- Department of Psychology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Andrea Downie
- Department of Psychology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Juliette Hukin
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, BC Children's Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shayna Zelcer
- Division of Hematology/Oncology, London Health Sciences Centre, London, Ontario, Canada
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19
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Van Schoors M, Caes L, Alderfer MA, Goubert L, Verhofstadt L. Couple functioning after pediatric cancer diagnosis: a systematic review. Psychooncology 2016; 26:608-616. [DOI: 10.1002/pon.4204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Van Schoors
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Line Caes
- School of Psychology and Centre for Pain Research; National University of Ireland Galway; Galway Ireland
| | - Melissa A. Alderfer
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Science; Nemours Children's Health System; Wilmington Delaware
- Department of Pediatrics, Sidney Kimmel Medical College; Thomas Jefferson University; Philadelphia Pennsylvania
| | - Liesbet Goubert
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
| | - Lesley Verhofstadt
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology; Ghent University; Ghent Belgium
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20
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Sultan S, Leclair T, Rondeau É, Burns W, Abate C. A systematic review on factors and consequences of parental distress as related to childhood cancer. Eur J Cancer Care (Engl) 2016; 25:616-37. [PMID: 26354003 PMCID: PMC5049674 DOI: 10.1111/ecc.12361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
The literature including correlates of parental distress as related to childhood cancer is abundant. It is important to identify predictive factors and outcomes of this distress in parents. The objective of this review was to update previous syntheses on factors of distress and to identify outcomes of parents' distress in the recent literature (2007-2012). We performed a systematic review to identify all quantitative studies including measures of parental distress and associated factors during the study period. We found 56 eligible studies, of which 43 had a Low risk of bias (Cochrane guidelines). Forty-two reports included potential predictive factors. Significant relationships were found with clinical history of the child, sex of the parent, coping response and personal resources, pre-diagnosis family functioning, but not education/income or marital status. Twenty-five reports studied potential consequences of distress and focused on psychological adjustment in parents and children. Compared to past periods, a higher proportion of studies included fathers. Measures used to evaluate distress were also more homogeneous in certain domains of distress. This review underscores the need for appropriate methods for selecting participants and reporting results in future studies. Appropriate methods should be used to demonstrate causality between factors/consequences and distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Sultan
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Centre de cancérologie Charles-Bruneau, Hôpital Sainte-Justine, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - T Leclair
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - É Rondeau
- Centre de cancérologie Charles-Bruneau, Hôpital Sainte-Justine, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - W Burns
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - C Abate
- Department of Psychology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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21
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Leeman J, Crandell JL, Lee A, Bai J, Sandelowski M, Knafl K. Family Functioning and the Well-Being of Children With Chronic Conditions: A Meta-Analysis. Res Nurs Health 2016; 39:229-43. [PMID: 27128982 DOI: 10.1002/nur.21725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
For children with chronic conditions, well-being is closely related to how well their families function. Most prior research syntheses on family functioning and child well-being have focused on children with a single condition, thereby limiting the potential to aggregate and build on what is known across conditions. To address this challenge, research reports were reviewed and meta-analyses conducted of findings on the relationship between family functioning and child well-being across a range of chronic physical conditions. The sample was derived from a larger systematic review study that included 1,028 reports published between January 1, 2000 and March 31, 2014. The current review includes 53 studies in which a relationship between family functioning and child well-being was analyzed using one of four family measures: Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scales, Family Environment Scale, Family Relationship Index, or Family Assessment Device. Most studies were cross-sectional and observational (n = 43, 81%). The most frequently studied conditions were diabetes, cancer, sickle cell disease, and asthma. In 37 studies, findings were sufficiently comparable to conduct meta-analyses. Significant correlations were identified between children's psychological health and seven of nine dimensions of family functioning. Significant correlations also were found between dimensions of family functioning and children's problem behaviors, social competence, quality of life, and, to a lesser extent, adherence and physical health. Of the family dimensions, cohesion and conflict were associated most strongly with child outcomes. Understanding the specific family variables, such as conflict, linked to varied child outcomes is key for intervention development. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Leeman
- Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, 5004 Carrington Hall, CB 7460, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599-7460
| | - Jamie L Crandell
- Assistant Professor, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Anna Lee
- Doctoral Candidate, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Jinbing Bai
- Doctoral Candidate, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Margarete Sandelowski
- Cary C. Boshamer Distinguished Professor, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Kathleen Knafl
- Frances Hill Fox Distinguished Professor, School of Nursing, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
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22
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Momani TG, Hathaway DK, Mandrell BN. Factors Affecting Health-Related Quality of Life in Children Undergoing Curative Treatment for Cancer: A Review of the Literature. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2015; 33:228-40. [PMID: 26611756 DOI: 10.1177/1043454215609585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is an important measure to evaluate a child's reported treatment experience. Although there are numerous studies of HRQoL in children undergoing curative cancer treatment, there is limited literature on factors that influence this. OBJECTIVE To review published studies that describe the HRQoL and associated factors in children undergoing curative cancer treatment. METHOD Full-text publications in English from January 2005 to March 2013 were searched in PubMed, PsychINFO, and CINAHL for children ≤18 years of age undergoing curative cancer treatment. HRQoL-associated factors were categorized as cancer diagnosis, treatment, child, family, and community. RESULTS Twenty-six studies met the inclusion criteria. The most frequently used generic and cancer-specific instruments were PedsQL (Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory) Generic and PedsQL Cancer, respectively. Cancer diagnosis and treatment were the most frequently identified variables; fewer studies measured family and community domains. Gender, treatment intensity, type of cancer treatments, time in treatment, and cancer diagnosis were correlated with HRQoL. CONCLUSION Our study highlights the need to develop interventions based on diagnosis and treatment regimen to improve the HRQoL in children undergoing curative cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tha'er G Momani
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | | | - Belinda N Mandrell
- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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23
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Kim SH, Yoo EK. Ethnographic Research on Adjustment of Mothers Caring for their Cancer Children in Korea. KOREAN JOURNAL OF WOMEN HEALTH NURSING 2015; 21:216-231. [PMID: 37684826 DOI: 10.4069/kjwhn.2015.21.3.216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 06/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to provide the basic data to develop the effective nursing intervention for the parent who have children with cancer by acquiring the deeper understanding of the mothers' adjustment of caring for their children with cancer. METHODS The ethnographic research method was used to find out the pattern of caring adjustment in Korean cultural context. Informants consisted of 12 mothers who were caring for their children with cancer. The data were collected using in-depth interviews, participant observation, and telephone interviews by maximum variation purposive sampling. The data were analyzed following Spradley's methodology. RESULTS The mothers' caring adjustment were organized into one cultural theme, four categories, and twelve properties. The cultural theme was 'standing alone as a mother with sin'. The four categories were 'blaming for falling illness', 'overcoming with motherhood', 'desperate struggling with side effects', and 'establishing new network as a dependent'. CONCLUSION For the mothers who are caring children with cancer, the supportive nursing intervention based on the deeper understanding of mothers' pattern of caring adjustment for their children and centered on facilitating effective adjustment in each cultural context especially from the very early stage of caring in the hospital ward is extremely required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Heui Kim
- Department of Nursing, Daejin University, Pocheon, Korea
| | - Eun Kwang Yoo
- Department of Nursing, Daejin University, Pocheon, Korea
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Macartney G, Harrison MB, VanDenKerkhof E, Stacey D, McCarthy P. Quality of life and symptoms in pediatric brain tumor survivors: a systematic review. J Pediatr Oncol Nurs 2015; 31:65-77. [PMID: 24608699 DOI: 10.1177/1043454213520191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Little is known about the quality of life of children and youth under the age of 20 who have completed treatment for a pediatric brain tumor. This systematic review was conducted to (a) describe the health-related quality of life (HRQL) outcomes in pediatric brain tumor survivors, (b) identify instruments used to measure HRQL, and (c) determine the relationship between symptoms and HRQL. Using a systematic search and review methodology, databases searched included CINAHL, Medline, Embase, and PsycInfo. No date restrictions were used. Search results elicited 485 articles, of which16 met the inclusion criteria. Compared with their healthy peers, pediatric brain tumor survivors did worse on most measures of physical, psychosocial, social, and cognitive domains of HRQL. Compared with other cancer patients, survivors scored themselves significantly lower on the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL) social functioning scale, and parents of brain tumor survivors reported lower PedsQL social and total functioning scores for their children. Other variables that were associated with decreased HRQL were degree of hypothalamic tumor involvement, osteopenia, need for special education, older age at diagnosis, greater than 1 year since treatment, and radiation treatment. In these studies, pediatric brain tumor survivors fared worse compared with other cancer survivors or healthy peers on several HRQL domains. Only 3 studies explored the relationship between symptoms, including pain or fatigue, and HRQL in pediatric brain tumor survivors. The relationship between symptoms and HRQL was not well elucidated. More research is needed to explore the multidimensional symptom experience and HRQL outcomes in pediatric brain tumor survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gail Macartney
- Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Yock TI, Bhat S, Szymonifka J, Yeap BY, Delahaye J, Donaldson SS, MacDonald SM, Pulsifer MB, Hill KS, DeLaney TF, Ebb D, Huang M, Tarbell NJ, Fisher PG, Kuhlthau KA. Quality of life outcomes in proton and photon treated pediatric brain tumor survivors. Radiother Oncol 2014; 113:89-94. [PMID: 25304720 DOI: 10.1016/j.radonc.2014.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2014] [Revised: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/24/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiotherapy can impair Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) in survivors of childhood brain tumors, but proton radiotherapy (PRT) may mitigate this effect. This study compares HRQoL in PRT and photon (XRT) pediatric brain tumor survivors. METHODS HRQoL data were prospectively collected on PRT-treated patients aged 2-18 treated at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Cross-sectional PedsQL data from XRT treated Lucile Packard Children's Hospital (LPCH) patients provided the comparison data. RESULTS Parent proxy HRQoL scores were reported at 3 years for the PRT cohort (PRT-C) and 2.9 years (median) for the XRT cohort (XRT-C). The total core HRQoL score for the PRT-C, XRT-C, and normative population differed from one another and was 75.9, 65.4 and 80.9 respectively (p=0.002; p=0.024; p<0.001). The PRT-C scored 10.3 and 10.5 points higher than the XRT-C in the physical (PhSD) and psychosocial (PsSD) summary domains of the total core score (TCS, p=0.015; p=0.001). The PRT-C showed no difference in PhSD compared with the normative population, but scored 6.1 points less in the PsSD (p=0.003). Compared to healthy controls, the XRT-C scored lower in all domains (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS The HRQoL of pediatric brain tumor survivors treated with PRT compare favorably to those treated with XRT and similar to healthy controls in the PhSD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Torunn I Yock
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States.
| | - Sundeep Bhat
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, Santa Clara Medical Center, United States
| | - Jackie Szymonifka
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Beow Y Yeap
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Jennifer Delahaye
- Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Sarah S Donaldson
- Stanford Cancer Center, Department of Radiation Oncology, United States
| | - Shannon M MacDonald
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States
| | - Margaret B Pulsifer
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Kristen S Hill
- Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Thomas F DeLaney
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States
| | - David Ebb
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States
| | - Mary Huang
- Department of Pediatric Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States
| | - Nancy J Tarbell
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Proton Center, Boston, United States
| | - Paul Graham Fisher
- Stanford University Medical Center, Department of Neurology, Palo Alto, United States
| | - Karen A Kuhlthau
- Center for Child and Adolescent Health Policy, Massachusetts General Hospital, Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
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Shortman RI, Lowis SP, Penn A, McCarter RJ, Hunt LP, Brown CC, Stevens MCG, Curran AL, Sharples PM. Cognitive function in children with brain tumors in the first year after diagnosis compared to healthy matched controls. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2014; 61:464-72. [PMID: 24039108 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.24746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improved survival of children with brain tumors (BTs) has increased focus on ameliorating morbidity. To reduce the risk of progressive cognitive decline, remedial strategies need to be instituted early, based upon accurate appraisal of need, yet few studies have investigated cognition in BT children early post-diagnosis. The study aims were to investigate cognition in children with primary BTs 1, 6, and 12 months post-diagnosis compared with healthy children, exploring the impact of disease and treatment variables. METHODS Forty-eight children aged 2-16 years with primary BTs, referred to a Regional Neurosurgical Unit over the 2-year study period were eligible for enrollment. The "best friends" model was used to recruit matched controls. Cognition was assessed using age-appropriate Wechsler Intelligence scales; Children's Memory Scale; Test of Everyday Attention for Children, and Wechsler Quicktest. RESULTS Patients with BTs had significantly reduced performance compared to controls early post-diagnosis in tests of Performance IQ, processing speed, verbal and visual memory, and selective attention. Improved performance over 12 months was seen in patients with BTs although also, for some measures, in controls. Significant deficits in cognitive performance were seen one year post-diagnosis for Verbal IQ; processing speed, visual and verbal immediate memory, and selective attention. Infratentorial site, high tumor grade, hydrocephalus, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy were associated with poorer functioning. CONCLUSION Early cognitive impairment is present in BT children, sometimes prior to radiotherapy/chemotherapy treatment, and is associated with hydrocephalus, high tumor grade and infratentorial site. Future studies should investigate the role of early rehabilitation in improving cognition.
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Shortman RI, Beringer A, Penn A, Malson H, Lowis SP, Sharples PM. The experience of mothers caring for a child with a brain tumour. Child Care Health Dev 2013; 39:743-9. [PMID: 22971015 DOI: 10.1111/cch.12005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain tumours are the second most common form of childhood cancer, accounting for over 20% of all cases in European children. Understanding the impact of diagnosis and treatment of a brain tumour on the family is an essential pre-requisite to identifying ways to provide effective support. AIM (1) To explore the impact of having a child with a brain tumour on the main caregiver in the family; (2) to describe mothers' experiences of coping with their child's illness, including personal barriers and strengths; and (3) to identify causes of stress and sources of support to inform improvements in care delivery. METHOD Participants were drawn from a group of caregivers enrolled in a longitudinal study of outcome following diagnosis of a childhood brain tumour. Six caregivers took part, two from each of the high-, medium- and low-impact groups based on their Impact on Families Scale scores. Semi-structured interviews were used, with questions covering: (1) impact of the diagnosis on main caregiver and family; (2) personal barriers and strengths; and (3) causes of stress and sources of support. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded manually into five themes, which comprised 19 subthemes. FINDINGS Coping methods and provision of help and support were major preoccupations for main caregivers from all impact groups. Caregivers in the high-impact group reported less conflict. High- and medium-impact group caregivers had experienced less 'hindrance and heartache', than those with low impact scores, suggesting that the stress associated with diagnosis and treatment of the tumour may have increased cohesion and acceptance within these families. CONCLUSION Families of children diagnosed with a brain tumour experience considerable negative impact and may perceive themselves as struggling to cope. Provision of help and support, within and outside the extended family, including from health, education and other services, is perceived as helpful.
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Affiliation(s)
- R I Shortman
- Department of Neuropsychology, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, UK.
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An KJ, Joung YS, Sung KW, Kim JH. Health-related quality of life and cognitive functioning at on- and off-treatment periods in children aged between 6-13 years old with brain tumors: a prospective longitudinal study. Yonsei Med J 2013; 54:306-14. [PMID: 23364961 PMCID: PMC3575987 DOI: 10.3349/ymj.2013.54.2.306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our study aimed to examine the relationship between intelligence and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in children (6-13 years old) diagnosed as having a brain tumor. MATERIALS AND METHODS We administered a Korean version of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-III, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory, version 4.0 (PedsQL), the Korean version of the Parenting Stress Index-Short Form, and the Korean Version of the Parenting Sense of Competence (K-PSOC) scale before or after initial radiotherapy (T1) and after treatment termination (T2). In total, 13 patients completed both the T1 and T2 interviews. RESULTS Scores significantly declined between T1 and T2 on the full-scale intelligence quotients (FIQ), verbal intelligence quotients (VIQ), performance intelligence quotients (PIQ), similarity and coding tests, as well as the K-PSOC, which measures parental anxiety. FIQ scores at T1 were correlated with the self-reported PedsQL total scores (r=0.739) and the parent proxy-report PedsQL scores for school functioning (r=0.706) at T2. Also, the FIQ scores at T2 were correlated with the self-reported PedsQL total scores (r=0.748) and scores for physical health (r=0.728) at T2. CONCLUSION The cognitive ability and intelligence level of the patients significantly declined between on and off treatment periods, and higher intelligence functioning at both on and off treatment was correlated with long-term higher HRQOL. Further investigations that monitor intelligence, HRQOL and parenting stress over a longer period, using a greater number of participants, are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyung Jin An
- Department of Psychiatry, Seoul Metropolitan Eunpyeong Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Yoo Sook Joung
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ki Woong Sung
- Department of Pediatrics, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ji-Hae Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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Kuhlthau KA, Pulsifer MB, Yeap BY, Rivera Morales D, Delahaye J, Hill KS, Ebb D, Abrams AN, Macdonald SM, Tarbell NJ, Yock TI. Prospective study of health-related quality of life for children with brain tumors treated with proton radiotherapy. J Clin Oncol 2012; 30:2079-86. [PMID: 22565004 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2011.37.0577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We describe the health-related quality of life (HRQoL) of a cohort of children with brain tumors treated with proton radiotherapy. PATIENTS AND METHODS We recruited 142 pediatric patients with brain tumors (age 2 to 18 years) and parents of such patients treated with proton radiation at Massachusetts General Hospital from 2004 to 2010. HRQoL was assessed using the PedsQL core, brain tumor, and cancer modules (range, 0 to 100). Assessments took place during radiation and annually thereafter. We examined correlations of HRQoL with disease, treatment, and cognitive and behavioral data. RESULTS Overall reports of HRQoL during treatment were 74.8 and 78.1 for child self-report (CSR) and 67.0 and 74.8 for parent proxy report (PPR) for the core and brain tumor modules, respectively. PPR demonstrated lower HRQoL scores than CSR, but the two were highly correlated. Higher HRQoL scores were significantly associated with Wechsler Full Scale Intelligence Quotient scores (administered via the age-appropriate version) and better scores on two behavioral measures. Disease type also correlated with PPR core total HRQoL score at the beginning of treatment: medulloblastoma or primitive neuroectodermal tumors, 57.8; germ cell tumors, 63.5; ependymoma or high-grade glioma, 69.8; low-grade glioma, 71.5; and other low-grade neoplasms, 78.0 (P = .001). Craniospinal irradiation and chemotherapy were negatively correlated with HRQoL. CONCLUSION This is the first study to our knowledge of HRQoL in a cohort of children with brain tumors treated with proton radiation. This prospective study demonstrates the effect of disease type and intensity of treatment on HRQoL. It further suggests that where CSR is not possible, PPR is appropriate in most circumstances.
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Bradley Eilertsen ME, Jozefiak T, Rannestad T, Indredavik MS, Vik T. Quality of life in children and adolescents surviving cancer. Eur J Oncol Nurs 2012; 16:185-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejon.2011.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2010] [Revised: 08/15/2011] [Accepted: 08/18/2011] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Townsend E, Pitchford NJ. Baby knows best? The impact of weaning style on food preferences and body mass index in early childhood in a case-controlled sample. BMJ Open 2012; 2:e000298. [PMID: 22315302 PMCID: PMC4400680 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2011-000298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The impact of different weaning methods on food preferences and body mass index (BMI) in early childhood is not known. Here, we examine if weaning method-baby-led weaning versus traditional spoon feeding-influences food preferences and health-related outcomes. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Parents (n=155) recruited through the Nottingham Toddler laboratory and relevant internet sites completed a questionnaire concerning (1) infant feeding and weaning style (baby-led=92, spoon-fed=63, age range 20-78 months), (2) their child's preference for 151 foods (analysed by common food categories, eg, carbohydrates, proteins, dairy) and (3) exposure (frequency of consumption). Food preference and exposure data were analysed using a case-controlled matched sample to account for the effect of age on food preference. All other analyses were conducted with the whole sample. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome measures were food preferences, exposure and weaning style. The secondary outcome measures were BMI and picky eating. RESULTS Compared to the spoon-fed group, the baby-led group demonstrated (1) significantly increased liking for carbohydrates (no other differences in preference were found) and (2) carbohydrates to be their most preferred foods (compared to sweet foods for the spoon-fed group). Preference and exposure ratings were not influenced by socially desirable responding or socioeconomic status, although an increased liking for vegetables was associated with higher social class. There was an increased incidence of (1) underweight in the baby-led group and (2) obesity in the spoon-fed group. No difference in picky eating was found between the two weaning groups. CONCLUSIONS Weaning style impacts on food preferences and health in early childhood. Our results suggest that infants weaned through the baby-led approach learn to regulate their food intake in a manner, which leads to a lower BMI and a preference for healthy foods like carbohydrates. This has implications for combating the well-documented rise of obesity in contemporary societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Townsend
- School of Psychology, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Penn A, Shortman RI, Lowis SP, Stevens MCG, Hunt LP, McCarter RJ, Curran AL, Sharples PM. Child-related determinants of health-related quality of life in children with brain tumours 1 year after diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010; 55:1377-85. [PMID: 20981692 DOI: 10.1002/pbc.22743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Infratentorial tumour site and health-related quality of life (HRQL) 1 month after diagnosis have been shown to predict HRQL 1 year after diagnosis in children with brain tumours. This study aimed to identify additional early child-related determinants of parent- and child-report HRQL. METHODS Longitudinal prospective study. Semi-structured interviews took place approximately 1 and 12 months after diagnosis. HRQL was measured using the self- and parent-report Pediatric Quality of Life Scales (PedsQL 4.0) Total Scale Score and Health Utilities Index Mark 3 (HUI3) multi-attribute utility function. Child variables included performance and verbal IQ, general memory, selective attention executive function, behaviour problems, adaptive behaviour, symptoms of depression and anxiety and event related anxiety. Univariate analyses were used to identify potential early predictors of HRQL. Regression analysis was then used to identify the most important determinants of HRQL at 1 year. RESULTS Thirty-five patients completed the 12-month interviews. Multivariate analysis showed infratentorial tumour site remained an important determinant of HRQL 1 year after diagnosis. Infratentorial tumour site and selective attention at 1 month generally best predicted poor self- and parent-report HRQL at 12 months. Adaptive behaviour and performance IQ may be important. CONCLUSION Selective attention and infratentorial tumour site are most important in predicting both parent- and self-report HRQL at 1 year after diagnosis. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. Cognitive remediation or/and pharmacological intervention, particularly aimed at children with infratentorial tumours may improve attention and subsequently HRQL and both merit further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony Penn
- Department of Paediatric Neurology, Frenchay Hospital, Bristol, UK.
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Vago C, Bulgheroni S, Usilla A, Biassoni V, Serra A, Gentile S, Ajovalasit D, Leonardi M, Massimino M, Fidani P, Riva D. Adaptive functioning in children in the first six months after surgery for brain tumours. Disabil Rehabil 2010; 33:953-60. [PMID: 21114385 DOI: 10.3109/09638288.2010.520804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine the adaptive functioning of children who underwent surgery for brain tumours with a view to analyse the related acute impairments and to describe their short-term outcome. METHOD We investigated adaptive functioning in 25 children (ranging from 2 to 18 years of age) for 40 days and again 3 and 6 months after they underwent surgery for various brain tumours. The Vineland Adaptive Behaviour Scales (VABS) were used to assess their adaptive functioning, considering the four main domains and all the subdomains. RESULTS The results remained stable over the follow-up period considered. The domain in which the scores were most severely affected was Daily Living, followed by the Socialisation and Communication domains. Within the Communication domain, the abilities investigated in the Receptive subdomain revealed the worst impairments. Within the Daily Living domain, impairments were most evident in the children's capacity to take care of themselves and handle domestic activities. In the Socialisation domain, Play and Leisure Time, and Interpersonal Relationships were the subdomains most severely impaired. CONCLUSIONS These findings are relevant because identifying children's adaptive functioning difficulties sooner could help their rehabilitation to be tailored and thus have a positive fallout on their long-term outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Vago
- Developmental Neurology Unit, Carlo Besta National Neurological Institute, Milan, Italy
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