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Hall EA, Hagemann TM, Shelton CM, Jasmin HM, Calvasina AN, Anghelescu DL. A Narrative Review of Pain in Pediatric Oncology: The Opioid Option. Paediatr Drugs 2024; 26:565-596. [PMID: 38954225 DOI: 10.1007/s40272-024-00640-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024]
Abstract
Opioid therapy is the mainstay for managing pain in pediatric oncology. This narrative review describes the current literature regarding opioids for pediatric cancer pain. The review explores the multifaceted landscape of opioid utilization in this population, including the role of opioids in certain clinical circumstances, modalities of opioid delivery, unique opioids, outpatient and at-home pain management strategies, and other key concepts such as breakthrough pain. This review highlights the importance of individualized dosing and multimodal approaches to enhance efficacy and minimize adverse effects. Drawing from a wide range of evidence, this review offers insights to optimize pediatric oncology pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth A Hall
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Tracy M Hagemann
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Chasity M Shelton
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Translational Science, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Hilary M Jasmin
- Health Sciences Library, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Alexis N Calvasina
- College of Pharmacy, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Doralina L Anghelescu
- Department of Global Pediatric Medicine, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, TN, USA
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Pérez-Torres Lobato M, Navarro-Marchena L, de Noriega I, Morey Olivé M, Solano-Páez P, Rubio Pérez E, Garrido Colino C, García Abos M, Tallón García M, Huidobro Labarga B, Portugal Rodríguez R, López Ibor B, Lassaletta Á, Morgenstern Isaak A, Cruz Martínez O, Valero Arrese L, Llort Sales A, Gros Subias L, Márquez Vega C, Moreno L, Quiroga-Cantero E. Palliative care for children with central nervous system tumors: results of a Spanish multicenter study. Clin Transl Oncol 2024; 26:786-795. [PMID: 37646983 DOI: 10.1007/s12094-023-03301-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain tumors represent the most common cause of cancer-related death in children. Few studies concerning the palliative phase in children with brain tumors are available. OBJECTIVES (i) To describe the palliative phase in children with brain tumors; (ii) to determine whether the use of palliative sedation (PS) depends on the place of death, the age of the patient, or if they received specific palliative care (PC). METHODS Retrospective multicenter study between 2010 and 2021, including children from one month to 18 years, who had died of a brain tumor. RESULTS 228 patients (59.2% male) from 10 Spanish institutions were included. Median age at diagnosis was 5 years (IQR 2-9) and median age at death was 7 years (IQR 4-11). The most frequent tumors were medulloblastoma (25.4%) and diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) (24.1%). Median number of antineoplastic regimens were 2 (range 0-5 regimens). During palliative phase, 52.2% of the patients were attended by PC teams, while 47.8% were cared exclusively by pediatric oncology teams. Most common concerns included motor deficit (93.4%) and asthenia (87.5%) and communication disorders (89.8%). Most frequently prescribed supportive drugs were antiemetics (83.6%), opioids (81.6%), and dexamethasone (78.5%). PS was administered to 48.7% patients. Most of them died in the hospital (85.6%), while patients who died at home required PS less frequently (14.4%) (p = .01). CONCLUSION Children dying from CNS tumors have specific needs during palliative phase. The optimal indication of PS depended on the center experience although, in our series, it was also influenced by the place of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pérez-Torres Lobato
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Pg. de La Vall d'Hebron, 119, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lucía Navarro-Marchena
- Palliative Care and Complex Chronic Patient Service, Sant Joan de Déu Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iñigo de Noriega
- Pediatric Palliative Care Unit, Niño Jesús Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Miriam Morey Olivé
- Division of General Pediatrics, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Eloísa Rubio Pérez
- Methodological and Statistical Management Unit, FISEVI, Virgen del Rocio Hospital, Seville, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Álvaro Lassaletta
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Niño Jesús Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Ofelia Cruz Martínez
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorena Valero Arrese
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Pg. de La Vall d'Hebron, 119, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Llort Sales
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Pg. de La Vall d'Hebron, 119, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luis Gros Subias
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Pg. de La Vall d'Hebron, 119, 08035, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Lucas Moreno
- Division of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Vall d'Hebrón Hospital, Pg. de La Vall d'Hebron, 119, 08035, Barcelona, Spain.
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Marinelli D, Ravoni G, Fusilli M, Colpani E, Filetti M, Santini D, Porzio G, Giusti R. Palliative sedation and time to death in home palliative care: retrospective analysis. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2024; 13:e890-e893. [PMID: 37280067 DOI: 10.1136/spcare-2023-004377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We described time to death and rates of palliative sedation during home palliative care leveraging a retrospective cohort of patients with advanced cancer. METHODS The cohort consists of 143 patients with solid or haematological malignancies admitted to home palliative care in the Tuscany region in central Italy. Only patients for whom a date of death was available were included. The outcome measures were time from admission to home palliative care to death and receipt of palliative sedation. RESULTS 143 patients were included in this report. Lower Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) scores were significantly associated with anticancer treatment at admission, as was younger age. Increasing ECOG PS scores were associated with lower survival time. Women and patients on anticancer treatment had longer survival time. Thirty-eight per cent of patients underwent palliative sedation at home; palliative sedation was more frequent among younger patients and among patients with brain or lung cancer. The most common reasons for palliative sedation were delirium and dyspnoea. CONCLUSIONS ECOG PS, sex and anticancer treatment had a significant impact on survival time. Thirty-eight per cent of patients in our cohort underwent home palliative sedation for refractory symptoms, most often delirium and dyspnoea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Marinelli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giulio Ravoni
- Home Care Service, Associazione Tumori Toscana, Firenze, Italy
| | - Maria Fusilli
- Home Care Service, Associazione Tumori Toscana, Firenze, Italy
| | - Emilia Colpani
- Home Care Service, Associazione Tumori Toscana, Firenze, Italy
| | - Marco Filetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
- UOC Phase I, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Santini
- Department of Medical-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Università degli Studi di Roma La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
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Cuviello A, Ang N, Morgan K, Baker JN, Anghelescu DL. Palliative Sedation Therapy Practice Comparison - A Survey of Pediatric Palliative Care and Pain Management Specialists. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:977-986. [PMID: 36475873 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221138298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Palliative sedation therapy (PST) can relieve suffering at end-of-life (EOL) in children with intolerable and refractory symptoms. However, updated and consistent guidance on PST practices are imperative. Objectives: We investigate current variations in clinical practice and PST implementation among pediatric palliative care (PPC) and pain management (PM) specialists. Methods: We distributed an IRB-exempt electronic anonymous survey via email through the Society of Pediatric Pain Medicine, and the American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Survey responses were collated and descriptively reported. Results: Of 83 survey responses, the majority (75%) represented large academic children's hospitals. The distribution between PPC and pediatric pain management specialists' responses was 60% and 40%, respectively. Most respondents reported having designated pain management and/or palliative care teams (70% and 90%, respectively). Approximately half (48%) reported following an institutional PST protocol, most not requiring formal ethics consult (69%). Only 54% of respondents noted that the Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order was required prior to PST initiation. PST was primarily utilized for children with oncologic diagnoses (76%). The primary and secondary medications of choice for PST implementation were reported to be opioids (39%) and benzodiazepines (36%) by pain management specialists, and benzodiazepines (52%) and barbiturates (28%) by palliative care specialists. Conclusions: Our study highlights the variability in the practice and implementation of PST. Further educational efforts are key for establishing PST practices and efficient protocol development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicholas Ang
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine, Rochester, MI, USA
| | - Kyle Morgan
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
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Ridley A, Vial-Cholley E, Robert G, Jounis-Jahan F, Lervat C, Betremieux P, Viallard ML, Frache S, Cojean N. Nationwide Study of Continuous Deep Sedation Practices Among Pediatric Palliative Care Teams. J Pain Symptom Manage 2023; 65:308-317. [PMID: 36528187 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpainsymman.2022.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Palliative sedation practices evolved in France when the Claeys-Leonetti law passed in 2016 authorized patient-requested continuous deep sedation (CDS) until death. Its implementation in the pediatric setting is less frequently encountered and can pose several clinical and ethical challenges for health care teams and families. OBJECTIVES Our study aimed to describe CDS requests and practices of patients receiving specialized pediatric palliative care in France since its legalization in 2016. METHODS We conducted a nationwide multicentric, descriptive, retrospective study using a self-report questionnaire completed by all Pediatric Palliative Care (PPC) Teams that were involved in a CDS case between January 2017 and December 2019. RESULTS Six PPC teams had cared for six patients that had requested CDS, predominantly male adolescents/young adults diagnosed with a solid tumour. The refractory symptoms were diverse (pain, bleeding, and sensory loss) and always coupled with psycho-existential suffering. Each request was analyzed in multidisciplinary collegial meetings. Parental consent was always obtained regardless of age. Sedation typically required the use of multiple drugs including Midazolam (n = 5 cases), Chlorpromazine (n = 3), Ketamine (n = 2), and Propofol (n = 2). Despite close monitoring, achieving a satisfactory level of deep sedation was challenging and most patients unexpectedly awoke during CDS. Death occurred between 27 and 96 hours after induction. CONCLUSION Managing patient-requested CDS in pediatrics is challenging due to its rarity, multi-factorial refractory symptoms and drug tolerance despite polytherapy. Few recommendations exist to guide CDS practice for pediatricians. Further studies investigating pediatric CDS practices across various cultural and legal settings, refractory symptom management and specific pharmacology are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Ridley
- Necker Enfants Malades Children's Hospital, Pediatric Palliative Care Team (A.R., M.L.V.), Paris, France.
| | | | - Guillaume Robert
- Pediatric Palliative Care Team Bretagne (G.R.), Rennes, France; University of Rennes 1 (G.R.), Rennes, France
| | | | - Cyril Lervat
- Pediatric Palliative Care Team Hauts de France (C.L.), Lille, France; Pediatric, Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Unit (C.L.), Oscar Lambret Centre, Lille, France
| | - Pierre Betremieux
- French Society of Pediatric Palliative Care, Société Française de Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques (P.B., S.F., N.C.)
| | - Marcel-Louis Viallard
- Necker Enfants Malades Children's Hospital, Pediatric Palliative Care Team (A.R., M.L.V.), Paris, France
| | - Sandra Frache
- Pediatric Palliative Care Team Franche-Comté (S.F.), Besançon, France; French Society of Pediatric Palliative Care, Société Française de Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques (P.B., S.F., N.C.)
| | - Nadine Cojean
- Pediatric Palliative Care Team Alsace (N.C.), Strasbourg, France; French Society of Pediatric Palliative Care, Société Française de Soins Palliatifs Pédiatriques (P.B., S.F., N.C.)
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Garcia ACM, Isidoro GM, Paiva EMDC, Silva AE, Costa ICP, Bornemann-Cimenti H. Palliative Sedation at Home: A Scoping Review. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2023; 40:173-182. [PMID: 35466700 DOI: 10.1177/10499091221096412] [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: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Palliative Sedation (PS) is an effective measure for the relief of refractory symptoms in end-of-life patients. This intervention can be performed at home, respecting the patients' and their families' decisions. A scoping review was performed to map the available evidence in the literature on the performance of PS at home. This review included 23 studies. Most were conducted in European countries with adult cancer patients. Patients, family members and healthcare providers participated in the decision making regarding the use of PS at home. PS was used primarily to manage refractory symptoms (pain, delirium, dyspnea, and others), and in 1 of the studies PS was mentioned as a possible intervention for shortening life. The most commonly used medication was midazolam and the average duration ranged from 4 h to 7 days. There are few reports on adverse events related to PS. This intervention seems to be a feasible possibility for the management of refractory symptoms in patients at the end of life, despite the fact that it can represent specific challenges for healthcare providers, patients and families. However, the literature is limited regarding PS in children and in people with diseases other than cancer, as well as on the evaluation of possible adverse effects related to this intervention. Furthermore, it is essential to have a broad ethical, clinical and legal debate on whether to consider the use of PS for the purpose of shortening life in specific cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Alexandre E Silva
- Nursing Department - Campus Centro-Oeste Dona Lindu, 74383Federal University of São João del-Rei, Divinópolis, Brazil
| | | | - Helmar Bornemann-Cimenti
- Departement of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, 31475Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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Descriptive analysis of palliative sedation in a pediatric palliative care unit. An Pediatr (Barc) 2022; 96:385-393. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anpede.2022.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Palliative sedation for children at end of life: a retrospective cohort study. BMC Palliat Care 2022; 21:57. [PMID: 35473555 PMCID: PMC9044579 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-022-00947-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Palliative sedation is consciously reducing the patient’s consciousness to alleviate the refractory symptoms. However, studies on palliative sedation for children are scarce. We aimed to survey the symptom control and risks for children with sedative therapy in end of life. Method This study was a single center retrospective cohort study. Children who died in the Department of Palliative Medicine were divided into palliative sedation (Group A) and non-palliative sedation group (Group B). The symptoms relief, survival time, and last hospitalization time were compared between two groups. Results From January 2012 to November 2019, 41 children died in department of palliative care. 24 children were sedated (Group A), meanwhile 17 children were not (Group B). The symptoms in Group A were more complex than Group B (p = 0.013). Overall symptom relief in Group A was higher than that in Group B (24/24, 10/15 p = 0.041). Pain relief rates (7/7, 20/21 p = 0.714), maximum/pre-death opioid dose [30(20, 77.5), 18(9, 45) p = 0.175, 30(20, 60), 18(9, 45) p = 0.208] and pain intensity difference [5(4,6.5), 4(2,6) p = 0.315] did not differ significantly in either groups. After diagnosis, the survival time of the Group A was longer than the Group B (p = 0.047). However, the length of hospitalization before death was similar in two groups (p = 0.385). Conclusion Palliative sedation controls complicated, painful symptoms at the end of life and does not shorten the hospitalization time in children.
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Soo JEJ, Chan MY, Bte Adb Rashid NAB, Bte Mohamad Yusri LI, Wynn YY, Noda M, Tewani K. Medication chart review at end of life of paediatric palliative patients. J Paediatr Child Health 2022; 58:392-396. [PMID: 34553811 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.15719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2020] [Revised: 02/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM This study aimed to review the use of medications in a paediatric palliative care (PPC) population during the last two weeks of life. METHODS This is a retrospective observational cohort study that included 50 consecutive patients who were referred to KK Hospital PPC service from 2011 to 2015. Those who died after two weeks from discharge date were excluded. Medication charts were reviewed and relevant data were extracted. RESULTS The study population included 42 patients and consists predominantly oncological and neurological diagnoses. The median number of medications used was 11.5. Ninety-five percent (40 out of 42) of study population required analgesia where 81% (34 out of 42) were opioid. There was prevalent use of antibiotics (86% of study population, 36 out of 42). Less frequently used medications included steroids, sedatives, laxatives and antiemetics (48%, 52%, 48% and 38% of study population respectively). CONCLUSION Significant number of medications was used in PPC during the last two weeks of life. Apart from significant use of analgesia, there is also notable use of antibiotics. Future directions in education such as prescription of laxatives with opioid are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mei Yoke Chan
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Yi Yi Wynn
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Misa Noda
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Komal Tewani
- KK Women's and Children's Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Piette V, Beernaert K, Cohen J, Pauwels NS, Scherrens AL, van der Werff Ten Bosch J, Deliens L. Healthcare interventions improving and reducing quality of life in children at the end of life: a systematic review. Pediatr Res 2021; 89:1065-1077. [PMID: 32645707 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-1036-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with serious illness suffer from symptoms at the end of life that often fail to be relieved. An overview is required of healthcare interventions improving and decreasing quality of life (QOL) for children with serious illness at the end of life. METHODS A systematic review was performed in five databases, January 2000 to July 2018 without language limit. Reviewers selected quantitative studies with a healthcare intervention, for example, medication or treatment, and QOL outcomes or QOL-related measures, for example, symptoms, for children aged 1-17 years with serious illness. One author assessed outcomes with the QualSyst and GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) Framework; two authors checked a 25% sample. QOL improvement or reduction was categorized. RESULTS Thirty-six studies met the eligibility criteria studying 20 unique interventions. Designs included 1 randomized controlled trial, 1 cross-sectional study, and 34 cohort studies. Patient-reported symptom monitoring increased QOL significantly in cancer patients in a randomized controlled trial. Dexmedetomidine, methadone, ventilation, pleurodesis, and palliative care were significantly associated with improved QOL, and chemotherapy, stem cell transplant, and hospitalization with reduced QOL, in cohort studies. CONCLUSIONS Use of patient-controlled symptom feedback, multidisciplinary palliative care teams with full-time practical support, inhalation therapy, and off-label sedative medication may improve QOL. Curative therapy may reduce QOL. IMPACT QOL for children at the end of life may be improved with patient-controlled symptom feedback, multidisciplinary palliative care teams with full-time practical support, inhalation therapy, and off-label sedative medication. QOL for children at the end of life may be reduced with therapy with a curative intent, such as curative chemotherapy or stem cell transplant. A comprehensive overview of current evidence to elevate currently often-failing QOL management for children at the end of life. New paradigm-level indicators for appropriate and inappropriate QOL management in children at the end of life. New hypotheses for future research, guided by the current knowledge within the field. Various healthcare interventions (as described above) could or might be employed as tools to provide relief in QOL management for children with serious illness, such as cancer, at the end of life, and therefore could be discussed in pediatrician end-of-life training to limit the often-failed QOL management in this population, cave the one-size-fits-all approach for individual cases. Multidisciplinary team efforts and 24/7 presence, especially practical support for parents, might characterize effective palliative care team interventions for children with serious illness at the end of life, suggesting a co-regulating link between well-being of the child partly to that of the parents Hypothesis-oriented research is needed, especially for children with nonmalignant disorders, such as genetic or neurological disorders at the end of life, as well as QOL outcomes for intervention research and psychosocial or spiritual outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veerle Piette
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels Health Campus-Building K Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium. .,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 6th floor, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Kim Beernaert
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels Health Campus-Building K Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 6th floor, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joachim Cohen
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels Health Campus-Building K Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 6th floor, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nele S Pauwels
- Knowledge Centre for Health Ghent, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 1st floor Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Anne-Lore Scherrens
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels Health Campus-Building K Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 6th floor, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jutte van der Werff Ten Bosch
- Department of Paediatrics, KidZ Health Castle Children's Hospital, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Dikke-Beuklaan 128, 1090, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of-Life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel and Ghent University, Brussels Health Campus-Building K Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universitair Ziekenhuis Gent, Ghent University, Entrance 42 (K3), 6th floor, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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de Noriega I, Rigal Andrés M, Martino Alba R. [Descriptive analysis of palliative sedation in a pediatric palliative care unit]. An Pediatr (Barc) 2021; 96:S1695-4033(21)00009-6. [PMID: 33612453 DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2021.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Data surrounding palliative sedation in pediatric patients is scarce. Our objective is to assess the utility of creating a quality standard for pediatric palliative sedation. MATERIAL AND METHODS A non-systematic review of the literature was used to find recommendations for pediatric palliative sedation, after which a definition was established based on three items: (1) indication, (2) consent, and (3) application. Afterwards, a retrospective analysis of palliative sedations applied by our unit over 5 years was performed. RESULTS Out of 163 patients, palliative sedation was applied in 20, in 17 of them by our unit (14/20 males; median: 11.9 years). Twelve patients had oncological diseases, seven had neurological conditions, and one had a polymalformative syndrome. Nine patients had more than one symptom at the time of PS initiation with pain (11/17) and dyspnoea (10/17) being the most frequent. As for the definition, only three patients achieved a global completion, with the registration of the consent, specification of refractoriness and the establishment of an adequate initial sedative dose being the areas with more possible improvement. CONCLUSIONS The application of the definition allowed us to analyze and find areas of improvement for our clinical practice of palliative sedation in pediatric patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo de Noriega
- Servicio de Pediatría. Hospital Universitario Puerta de Hierro-Majadahonda, Madrid, España.
| | - Manuel Rigal Andrés
- Unidad de Atención Integral Paliativa Pediátrica. Hospital Infantil Universitario del Niño Jesús, Madrid, España
| | - Ricardo Martino Alba
- Unidad de Atención Integral Paliativa Pediátrica. Hospital Infantil Universitario del Niño Jesús, Madrid, España
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Hauch H, El Mohaui N, Wolff JEA, Vaillant V, Brill S, Schneck E, Ströter N, Sibelius U, Kriwy P, Berthold D. Out-of-Hospital Emergencies in Children Under Palliative Home Care. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:734181. [PMID: 35004533 PMCID: PMC8727697 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.734181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Specialized palliative home care (SPHC) enables children and adolescents with life-limiting illnesses and complex needs to receive care at home. In addition to controlling symptoms and stabilizing the psychosocial situation, crisis anticipation is a component of SPHC. Since the establishment of the reporting SPHC team, parents have called for additional help from emergency medical services (EMS) in emergency situations with unexpected frequency. Children with life limiting diseases could undergo invasive procedures and unhelpful treatments with uncertain consequences. The questions arose as to which factors led to the involvement of the EMS in a palliative situation, what therapy was performed and what outcome could be reached. Methods: Records of the pediatric SPHC patients and EMS call-outs in these children of the reporting SPHC-team in the central region of Hesse, Germany (population: 1.1 million) were retrospectively analyzed from 01.11.2014 to 01.05.2021. The causes of the call-outs, the existence of an emergency agreement, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) score, EMS therapy and outcome were examined. Patient data included age, palliative-justifying diagnosis, duration and intensity of care, place of death and median overall survival (MOS) and palliative SHPC treatment. Results: In total, 172 patients were analyzed during the study period. There were 27 EMS calls for a total of 20 patients/families (= EMS group). Palliative illness or a complication was the most frequent cause of call-outs. The patients in the EMS group were significantly less likely to have a DNR order, required more home visits and telephone calls and were under SPHC care for longer. There was a significantly higher proportion of crisis interventions at home visits. The children in the EMS group died less often from the underlying disease. Of the remaining 152 patients (= non-EMS group), a significantly higher proportion had a European home country. Conclusions: Despite the introduction of the SPHC, parents still call the EMS. Good cooperation and joint training should be sought to prepare all those involved for future call-outs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holger Hauch
- Palliative Care Team for Children, University Children's Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Naual El Mohaui
- Palliative Care Team for Children, University Children's Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Vera Vaillant
- Palliative Care Team for Children, University Children's Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Sabine Brill
- Palliative Care Team for Children, University Children's Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Emmanuel Schneck
- Anesthesiology and Intensive Medicine, University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Natascha Ströter
- Pediatric Oncology, University Children's Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Ulf Sibelius
- Palliative Care Team for Adults, University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Peter Kriwy
- Institute of Sociology, Chemnitz University of Technology, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Daniel Berthold
- Palliative Care Team for Adults, University Hospital Giessen, Giessen, Germany
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Maeda S, Kato I, Umeda K, Hiramatsu H, Takita J, Adachi S, Tsuneto S. Continuous deep sedation at the end of life in children with cancer: experience at a single center in Japan. Pediatr Hematol Oncol 2020; 37:365-374. [PMID: 32379512 DOI: 10.1080/08880018.2020.1744781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Continuous deep sedation (CDS) is used to alleviate unbearable and otherwise refractory symptoms in patients dying of cancer. No data are available concerning CDS in children from Japan to date. This study primarily aimed to describe experience in CDS in child cancer patients at Kyoto University Hospital. The secondary aims were to identify the characteristics of patients who received CDS, and to assess ability in daily living at the end of life. A retrospective chart review was performed for child cancer patients who died at the institute between 2008 and 2017. The data of 35 patients were analyzed. Nine (26%) patients had received CDS. Indications for CDS were dyspnea (56%), agitation (22%), seizures (22%), and pain (11%). Midazolam was used in all nine cases. In eight (89%) patients, opioids were also prescribed. In seven (78%) patients, CDS was performed for < 48 hours. In all nine cases, consent was obtained from the parent(s) but not from the children. CDS was more likely in patients with solid tumors (p = 0.018) and those who had received no respite sedation (p = 0.002). Patients without central nervous system symptoms tended to maintain their capacity for oral intake and verbal communication until a few days prior to death. This is the first report on CDS in child cancer patients from Japan. In the CDS literature, cross-study differences are evident for incidence, target symptoms, duration, and the decision-making process. Further international discussion is warranted concerning indications for CDS and the decision-making process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sayaka Maeda
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Kyoto University Hospital, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Itaru Kato
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Katsutsugu Umeda
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hidefumi Hiramatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junko Takita
- Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Souichi Adachi
- Department of Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Satoru Tsuneto
- Department of Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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14
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Prommer E. Midazolam: an essential palliative care drug. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2020; 14:2632352419895527. [PMID: 32215374 PMCID: PMC7065504 DOI: 10.1177/2632352419895527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Midazolam is a commonly used benzodiazepine in palliative care and is considered one of the four essential drugs needed for the promotion of quality care in dying patients. Acting on the benzodiazepine receptor, it promotes the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Gamma-aminobutyric acid action promotes sedative, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant properties. Midazolam has a faster onset and shorter duration of action than other benzodiazepines such as diazepam and lorazepam lending itself to greater flexibility in dosing than other benzodiazepines. The kidneys excrete midazolam and its active metabolite. Metabolism occurs in the liver by the P450 system. This article examines the pharmacology, pharmacodynamics, and clinical uses of midazolam in palliative care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Prommer
- UCLA/VA Hospice and Palliative Medicine Program, UCLA School of Medicine, 11301 Wilshire Blvd., Bldg. 500, Room 2064A, Los Angeles, CA 90073, USA
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15
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Abstract
This paper is the thirty-eighth consecutive installment of the annual review of research concerning the endogenous opioid system. It summarizes papers published during 2015 that studied the behavioral effects of molecular, pharmacological and genetic manipulation of opioid peptides, opioid receptors, opioid agonists and opioid antagonists. The particular topics that continue to be covered include the molecular-biochemical effects and neurochemical localization studies of endogenous opioids and their receptors related to behavior, and the roles of these opioid peptides and receptors in pain and analgesia, stress and social status, tolerance and dependence, learning and memory, eating and drinking, drug abuse and alcohol, sexual activity and hormones, pregnancy, development and endocrinology, mental illness and mood, seizures and neurologic disorders, electrical-related activity and neurophysiology, general activity and locomotion, gastrointestinal, renal and hepatic functions, cardiovascular responses, respiration and thermoregulation, and immunological responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Bodnar
- Department of Psychology and Neuropsychology Doctoral Sub-Program, Queens College, City University of New York, Flushing, NY 11367, United States.
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16
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Fernández Urtubia B, Trevigno Bravo A, Rodríguez Zamora N, Palma Torres C, Cid Barria L. [Use of opioids in palliative care of children with advanced cancer]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 87:96-101. [PMID: 26655881 DOI: 10.1016/j.rchipe.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite advances in the treatment of cancer in paediatric patients, 15% of children die from the illness progression in Chile, and pain is the most significant symptom in advanced stages. Although the World Health Organization guidelines demonstrate that opioids are fundamental in pain management, there is still resistance to their use. The main objective of this article was to describe the experience in the use of opioids for pain management in paediatric patients with advanced cancer in palliative care (PC). PATIENTS AND METHOD Retrospective study of patients admitted into the PC Program at the Hospital Roberto del Río between 2002 and 2013. Analysis was carried out on demographic data; oncological diagnosis; pain intensity on admission and discharge, according to validated scales; use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; weak opioids; strong opioids; adjuvants drugs; the presence of secondary effects resulting from the use of morphine, and the need for palliative sedation. RESULTS Of the 99 medical records analysed, the median age was 8 years, 64.6% were male, and there was a similar distribution in three oncological diagnosis groups. Upon admission, 43.4% presented intense to severe pain, and upon discharge there were four patients, but with a maximum VAS score of 7 in only one case. Of the 66 patients taking strong opioids, 89% required less than 0.5mg/kg/hr. Constipation was the most frequently observed secondary effect. CONCLUSIONS Two thirds of the patients studied required strong opioids, with which adequate pain management was achieved, with no serious complications observed. The use of opioids in this group of patients, following a protocol, is considered effective and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Natalie Rodríguez Zamora
- Unidad de Hemato-Oncología, Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto del Río, Santiago, Chile; Departamento de Pediatría y Cirugía Infantil, Campus Norte, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Chile, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Chery Palma Torres
- Unidad de Hemato-Oncología, Hospital de Niños Dr. Roberto del Río, Santiago, Chile
| | - Luis Cid Barria
- Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valparaíso, Valparaíso, Chile
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