M1925 Long Term Quality of Life in Conservatively Treated Gastric Lymphoma Patients Versus Gastrectomized Patients and Gastritis Patients

Abstract

Background: This study compares the long term health related quality of life (HRQOL) of conservatively treated gastric lymphoma patients to gastrectomized patients and chronic gastritis patients. The results were used to determine whether either treatment led to a better health related quality of life for patients. Methods: The study utilized two different questionnaires, the EORTC-QLQ-30, which is used to assess quality of life in all cancer patients, and the EORTC-STO-22, which is used to assess quality of life specifically in gastric cancer patients. The participants were from a single tertiary-care oncology center. The health related quality of life of conservatively treated gastric lymphoma patients (n=22) was compared with that of patients who had undergone gastrectomy (n=34). Both treatment groups were also compared to a control group comprised of patients with chronic gastritis (n=31). Results: The long term health related quality of life of conservatively treated gastric lymphoma patients is as good as among patients with chronic gastritis, and better than the health related quality of life of patients who have undergone gastrectomy. The health related quality of life of the conservative treatment group is not significantly different than the control group. The health related quality of life of the surgical treatment group is significantly worse than the control group (P<<0.005). The gastrectomized group when compared to the conservative treatment group has more symptoms [nausea and vomiting (p<0.04), sleep disturbances (p<0.018), constipation (p<0.017), diarrhea (p<0.0001), financial difficulties (p<0.018), solid food dysphagia (p<0.0003), liquified food dysphagia (p<0.032), discomfort during meals (p<0.046), reflux (0.023), heartburn (p<0.0024), belching (p<0.0039), early satiety (p<0.047), and anxiety regarding hair loss (p<0.004)]. Conclusions: These findings indicate good health related quality of life following conservative treatment for gastric lymphoma patients.