Control of bleeding in advanced cancer

Management of bleeding in the terminally ill patient

Clinically significant bleeding occurs in approximately 6%-10% of patients in the palliative-care setting. Bleeding can range from persistent and small in quantity (but enough to interfere with a patient's quality of life), to catastrophic bleeding that ultimately leads to the rapid demise of the patient. Uncontrolled bleeding can be very distressing for staff, patients and families. Advanced planning is necessary in all bleeding circumstances. This session will review the types of cancer associated with bleeding, as well as management options for these situations. Emphasis will be placed on aspects of communication with families.

Management of bleeding in a patient with colorectal cancer: a case study

Superficial bleeding in patients with malignant disease is a distressing symptom, which is often difficult to control. The following is a case study outlining the use of Sucralfate, an oral cytoprotective agent, used topically in a patient with colo-rectal cancer. The treatment resulted in control of bleeding, less localized pain and more freedom and independence for the patient.