Neoplasie testa-collo e cure palliative, sintomi e qualità di vita.revisione della letteratura
Articolo
Data di Pubblicazione:
2020
Citazione:
Neoplasie testa-collo e cure palliative, sintomi e qualità di vita.revisione della letteratura / S. Tinti, G. Cassani, I. Pinna, A. Alberti, A. Destrebecq. - In: RECENTI PROGRESSI IN MEDICINA. - ISSN 0034-1193. - 2020:111(2020), pp. 722-732.
Abstract:
Head-neck neoplasms are the fifth most common
cancer. Head-neck patients are particularly exposed
to quality of life impairment due to the central anatomical-
functional role of this region in primary functions such
as breathing, swallowing and phonation. Many patients
are already at an advanced stage of the disease at the
time of diagnosis and their prognosis remains unfavourable
despite new treatment options. They face daily with
multiple and simultaneous symptoms. In 20% of cases
the average survival is only 5 months, making it appropriate
to take charge early for the important need of palliative
care. The aim of this review is to deepen the knowledge
concerning the neoplasms of the head-neck district,
with particular reference to the symptoms and quality of
life of people in advanced stage and in palliative care.
The literature review was performed through CINAHL,
Cochrane Library, Embase, PsycINFO, PubMed, Scopus
and Web of Science. The research identified 9 studies
that met the inclusion criteria. The results of the studies
showed the prevalent symptoms of dyspnea, fatigue,
nutrition and oral problems, pain, insomnia, anxiety and
depression. Oral nutrition could be compromised, producing
weight loss and malnutrition. In such a condition,
the enteral route could be necessary. The impact of the
symptoms was greater for those who could not maintain
adequate nutrition and was a predictor of reduced food
intake, weight loss and survival. Malnutrition influenced
the performance status and quality of life which seemed
to remain unchanged as the end of life approached. Mucositis,
dysphagia and xerostomia had a strong association.
Dysphagia was related to dysphonia. A worsening
of emotional distress was shown in relation to the female
gender and the tumor site. Head-neck cancer had
a strong impact on the quality of life. Patients considere
dyspnea, dysphonia, mobility problems, anger and weakness
as the most important issues. Earlier interventions
could allow a partial and temporary improvement of
quality of life compatible with the patient’s conditions.
Nursing care involves multidimensional assessment and
an early individualized, symptom-driven and needs-oriented
approach.
Tipologia IRIS:
01 - Articolo su periodico
Keywords:
advanced disease; end of life care; head and neck cancer; nursing;
Elenco autori:
S. Tinti, G. Cassani, I. Pinna, A. Alberti, A. Destrebecq
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