Quality Of Life Changes In Patients Research Articles

Change in quality of life of metastatic breast cancer patients seeking treatment at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana.

e24111 Background: Despite developments in breast cancer screening for early diagnosis and treatment, 20-85% of women go on to develop distant metastasis, based on tumor biology, stage at presentation and treatment modalities received. The primary goal of treating metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is to improve quality of life (QoL). This study assessed the change in QoL for patients with MBC seeking treatment at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). Methods: Women with MBC seen at KATH had QoL assessed using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Breast (FACT-B) questionnaire before, and 3 months after they were supposed to have received systemic treatment - chemotherapy, hormonal, target therapy. Data was analyzed using STATA v17 software. The higher the FACT scores, the better the QoL. Results: Fifty-six women with MBC were interviewed. Their mean age was 51.7 years. Only 27 (48%) of them received some systemic treatment – chemotherapy, hormonal, target therapy – over the study period. Baseline median QoL scores in the wellbeing domains were physical (PWB) = 17.5, social/family (SWB) = 16.0, emotional (EWB) = 12.0, functional (FWB) = 8.0, breast cancer subscale (BCS) = 22.0. Their median total QoL scores were FACT-B = 77.5; FACT-B TOI = 48.5 and FACT-G = 54.5. At follow up, 28 (50%) of participants were alive. About a third (9/28) of them received no systemic treatment. Of the remaining 19; 4, 1 and 14 received one, two and three cycles of systemic treatment respectively. Their median QoL scores were PWB = 20.5, SWB = 16.0, EWB = 16.0, FWB = 15.0, BCS = 22.5, FACT-G = 72.0, FACT-B = 94.5, and FACT-B TOI = 61.0. Fourteen had improved, and 14 had deteriorated QoL. The median minimally important difference (MID) for the improved QoL group was MID FACT-B = -22, MID FACT-B TOI = -10 and MID BCS = -4, and for the deteriorated QoL group was MID FACT-B = 26.9, MID FACT-B TOI = 18 and MID BCS = 5. Being dead at follow up was related to receiving no treatment (AOR = 6.97, CI: 1.91 – 25.47, p-value = 0.003) and having one metastatic site at baseline (AOR = 5.23, CI:1.43 – 19.12, p-value = 0.01). Conclusions: Mortality among women with MBC was high (50%), especially among those who did not receive any systemic treatment or had one metastatic site. Of the survivors, equal proportions had significantly improved and significantly deteriorated QoL scores albeit varying treatment courses received. Further studies are needed to explore how systemic treatment or not impact QoL changes and survival outcomes of MBC patients in KATH.

Improvements in Quality of Life at 1 Year in Patients Treated with Cladribine Tablets for Highly Active Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis: An Interim Analysis of Clarify-MS

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disabling disease associated with negative effects on quality of life (QoL), including physical and mental health. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the change in QoL for patients with highly active relapsing MS at 1 year after initiating treatment with cladribine tablets (CladT), by assessing changes in the physical and mental health composite scores of Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQoL-54).

Changes in olfaction & quality of life following standard medical therapy in patients with intermittent & persistent allergic rhinitis.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an inflammatory disease prevalent worldwide which can affect both olfaction and quality of life (QoL). The objective of the present study was to assess olfaction and QoL changes in patients with AR before and after medical therapy. Adult participants (>18 yr) with AR were recruited for this study. These patients prospectively underwent olfaction testing using the modified Connecticut Chemosensory Clinical Research Centre Test and QoL assessment using Rhinoconjunctivitis QoL Questionnaire (RQLQ) before and after standard medical therapy with topical steroids and/antihistaminics. Of the 150 patients recruited, 72 per cent had intermittent AR. The symptom of hyposmia was present in 34 patients (22.7%) and was more prevalent in patients with moderate-to-severe type of AR (P<0.001). However, olfaction testing revealed hyposmia/anosmia in 44 patients (29.3%). Mean composite olfaction scores were significantly higher in patients with mild AR compared to moderate/severe AR (P=0.026). The pre-therapy mean composite olfaction score in the 34 patients with olfaction disturbances was 3.1 standard deviation (±1.06 SD). Following therapy, the mean composite olfaction score rose to 4.3 (±1.34 SD) and this change was found to be significant (P<0.001). Mean pre-therapy RQLQ scores were 2.87 (0.06-5.33) overall. Significant improvement was also found in RQLQ scores following therapy (P<0.001). Mean RQLQ scores were significantly lower in those with moderate-to-severe AR (P<0.001) as well as those with intermittent AR (P=0.004). Nine patients had persistently high RQLQ scores after medical therapy. Both olfaction and QoL showed significant improvement after medical therapy in Indian adults with AR. In those patients who do not improve, other causes must be sought for the persistent symptoms.

Impact of Clostridioides difficile infection on patient-reported quality of life.

We investigated the quality of life (QoL) of patients hospitalized with C. difficile infection (CDI). Prospective survey study. US tertiary-care referral center, acute-care setting. Adults hospitalized with a diagnosis of CDI, defined as ≥3 episodes of unformed stool in 24 hours and a positive laboratory test for C. difficile. We surveyed patients from July 2019 to March 2020 using the disease-specific Cdiff32 questionnaire and the generic PROMIS GH survey. We compared differences in Cdiff32 scores among demographic and clinical subgroups (including CDI severity, CDI recurrence, and various comorbidities) using 2-sample t tests. We compared PROMIS GH scores to the general population T score of 50 using 1-sample t tests. We performed multivariable linear regression to identify predictors of Cdiff32 scores. In total, 100 inpatients (mean age, 58.6 ±17.1 years; 53.0% male; 87.0% white) diagnosed with CDI completed QoL surveys. PROMIS GH physical health summary scores (T = 37.3; P < .001) and mental health summary scores (T = 43.4; P < .001) were significantly lower than those of the general population. In bivariate analysis, recurrent CDI, severe CDI, and number of stools were associated with lower Cdiff32 scores. In multivariable linear regression, recurrent CDI, severe CDI, and each additional stool in the previous 24 hours were associated with significantly decreased Cdiff32 scores. Patients hospitalized with CDI reported low scores on the Cdiff32 and PROMIS GH, demonstrating a negative impact of CDI on QoL in multiple health domains. The Cdiff32 questionnaire is particularly sensitive to QoL changes in patients with recurrent or severe disease.

Triamcinolone Acetonide in the Treatment of Perennial Allergic Rhinitis: A post hoc Analysis of Quality of Life during a Phase III Study

Introduction: Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a disease that affects ≤24% of people in Russia, significantly impairing quality of life (QoL). Intranasal corticosteroids, such as triamcinolone acetonide (TAA), are considered effective drugs for treatment. A post hoc analysis of data (phase III NASANIF trial) examined weekly QoL changes in patients receiving TAA for the treatment of perennial AR (PAR). Methods: NASANIF (NCT03317015) was a double-blind, parallel group, multicenter, prospective, noninferiority, phase III clinical trial. Patients with PAR were randomized (1:1) to receive TAA or fluticasone propionate (FP) for 4 weeks. Here, a post hoc analysis measures QoL using a shortened Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (miniRQLQ). Differences in miniRQLQ score were evaluated using a mixed linear model and descriptive statistics. A subgroup analysis was performed in patients with a previous diagnosis of allergic conjunctivitis. Results: Of 260 patients eligible for randomization, 128 each completed treatment with TAA or FP. Overall and individual domain scores progressively improved and were significantly different versus baseline at week 4 in both treatment groups: LS mean difference TAA: −30.92 (95% CI [−33.01 to −28.83]), p < 0.001, and FP: −31.13 (−33.23 to −29.04), p < 0.001. In both arms of the subgroup, there was a significant reduction in eye symptoms. There was no significant difference between the TAA and FP treatment groups in any analyses. Conclusions: TAA is effective in improving overall and individual domains of QoL in patients with PAR, over 4 weeks. Patients with a previous diagnosis of allergic conjunctivitis experienced significant improvements in QoL related to the resolution of these symptoms.

Inpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation after Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement Is Associated with Improved Clinical Performance and Quality of Life.

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) provides multifactorial support and intervention for cardiac patients and improves quality of life (QoL). We aimed to assess clinical performance and QoL changes in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) scheduled directly to inpatient CR (CR group) and those who were discharged home (DH group). The following patient-related outcomes were recorded: 5 m walk time (5MWT), 6 min walk test (6MWT), handgrip strength (HGS) with dynamometer, Katz index of Independence of Activities in Daily Living (KI of ADL), Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scores (HADS) Score. Quality of life was evaluated with Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ). Baseline data, 30-day and 6- and 12-month data were assessed. The CR group consisted of 52 patients and 53 were in the discharged home (DH group). When we compared outcomes between the groups, the 5MWT, 6MWT, HGS KI of ADL, and KCCQ were significantly better in the CR group at 30 days (p = 0.03, p = 0.01, p = 0.02, p = 0.048, respectively), and no difference was found in HADS scores. At 6 months, the effect of CR was sustained for 6MWT, HGS, KI of ADL, and KCCQ (p = 0.001, p = 0.001, p = 0.03, p = 0.003, respectively) but not for 5MWT. Interestingly, at 12 months, the CR group had better performance only in 6MWT and HGS compared with the DH group (p = 0.04, p = 0.03, respectively). We showed that inpatient CR is strongly associated with better clinical performance and QoL in patients undergoing TAVR. All patients may benefit from CR after TAVR. The most important aspect of inpatient CR after TAVR from the patient’s perspective may be better performance in daily activities; however, performance was attenuated after 1 year.

Dynamic Changes of Generic Quality of Life after Different Treatments for Localized Prostate Cancer.

Generic quality of life (QoL) is an important issue in decision making related to the primary treatment of localized prostate cancer (PC). This study assessed the dynamic changes of QoL in patients with localized PC under different treatment modalities. From 2013 to 2018, we prospectively assessed QoL scores in patients with localized PC under unitary treatment using the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL) BREF version. The trajectories of the QoL scores after different treatments were estimated using a kernel-smoothing method. Dynamic changes in the major determinants were analyzed using a mixed effects model. The clinical features of the participants in our institute were compared with PC patients in Taiwan’s cancer registry. A total of 196 patients were enrolled with 491 repeated assessments. The participants shared similar clinical characteristics with the PC patients in Taiwan as a whole. Patients with lower household incomes showed statistically significant lower scores on all four domains and related facets, while PC survivors with comorbidities of anxiety and/or diabetes appeared to be affected on the physical domain and related facets. After controlling for these determinants, patients under active surveillance or observation demonstrated significantly higher QoL scores in the physical and social domains, as well as several facets belonging to these domains, in mixed models compared with patients undergoing radical prostatectomy or radiotherapy within the first year. The generic QoL scores were higher within the first year in patients receiving active surveillance or observation after controlling other significant factors. The difference diminished after one year of post management. More studies are needed to corroborate our findings.

Impact of chronic total occlusion recanalisation on the quality of life in patients with stable coronary artery disease

Background. Coronary chronic total occlusion (CTO) is a common finding during routine coronary angiography. Despite significant progress in the technical success rate of CTO percutaneous coronary intervention over the last decade, indications for an invasive strategy are still controversial. To date, there is limited data on the role of invasive strategy in patients with CTO in improving the quality of life (QoL).Aim. To compare the QoL changes in patients with coronary artery disease with a single-vessel coronary CTO randomised to invasive or medical strategies.Methods. The study included 140 symptomatic patients with single-vessel CTO, who were randomised to either invasive or medical strategies. The QoL was then analysed using the Seattle Quality of Life Questionnaire (SAQ-7), EQ-5D-5L and the Rose Dyspnea Scale at baseline, after 3 and 12 months.Results. In total, 140 clinical, demographic, instrumental variables were analysed. There were no statistically significant differences between groups. At baseline, the summary score of the SAQ-7 in the medical group was 63.3 ± 15.7 and in the invasive group was −66.5 ± 13.1 (p = 0.13). The severity of dyspnoea according to the Rose questionnaire in the medical and invasive groups were 1.8 ± 1.1 and 1.9 ± 1.2, respectively, (p = 0.60). By 3 months, the summary score in the invasive group was 89.02 ± 9.2 and was statistically significantly higher than in the medical group (72.3 ± 12.4, p = 0.0001). The subscales of SAQ-7 at 3 months were also statistically significantly higher in the invasive group (p = 0.0001). This statistically and clinically significant difference between the groups persisted up to 12 months. The rate of adverse cardiovascular events was comparable in the study groups to 12 months of follow-up: 12.8% (9/70) and 7.1% (5/70) in the medical and invasive strategies, respectively. The crossover rate (from the medical to the invasive group) was 11.4% (8/70).Conclusion. Our study showed that an invasive strategy should be considered as effective and safe in improving the QoL in symptomatic patients with single-vessel CTO. Received 13 May 2020. Revised 29 May 2020. Accepted 1 June 2020. Funding: The study did not have sponsorship. Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest. Author contributions Conception and design: A.G. Badoian, O.V. Krestyaninov Data collection and analysis: A.G. Badoian, D.A. Khelimskii, O.V. Krestyaninov Statistical analysis: A.G. Badoian, D.A. Khelimskii, R.A. Naydenov Drafting the article: A.G. Badoian, R.U. Ibragimov, D.A. Khelimskii Critical revision of the article: R.U. Ibragimov, O.V. Krestyaninov, R.A. Naydenov Final approval of the version to be published: A.G. Badoian, D.A. Khelimskii, O.V. Krestyaninov, R.U. Ibragimov, R.A. Naydenov

Impact of a Pharmacist-led COPD Clinic on Patient Outcomes in a Rural Healthcare Clinic

Background While it is well documented that pharmacists improve disease state outcomes, there are currently no studies evaluating a pharmacist’s impact on quality of life (QOL), lung function, and adherence in COPD patients, specifically in a rural healthcare setting. We aimed to compare changes in patient QOL with and without participation in a pharmacist-led COPD clinic in a rural healthcare setting. Methods This was a single-center, prospective, open-label, case/control study performed at a rural healthcare center during December 2018 through June 2019. Enrolled patients were assigned to either the case or control arm on an alternating basis. Case participants received individualized patient care including PFT, QOL assessment utilizing the St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire (SGRQ), disease state education, and medication management for a total of 3 appointments during a 6-month period. Control subjects did not receive the individualized intervention during the 3 appointments and only completed the PFT, SGRQ, and medication adherence counseling. Results A total of 20 patients participated in the complete 6-month COPD clinic. At the end of the 6-month clinic, there was not a statistically significant difference between the groups in regard to SGRQ values (p=0.191), medication adherence (p=0.279), and lung function (p=0.321). Limitations included randomization methods and sample size. Conclusions Although there was not a statistically significant difference between the groups; significant mediation management interventions were made for participants in both the intervention and control groups. Pharmacists are well positioned in multiple practice settings to contribute to the improvement of quality of life for these patients.

Changes in, and predictors of, quality of life among patients with unstable angina after percutaneous coronary intervention.

Changes in, and predictors of, quality of life (QoL) among unstable angina patients are informative for both clinical and public health practice. However, there is little research on this topic, especially in health care settings with limited resources. This study aims to detect changes in QoL and its associated factors among patients with unstable angina after percutaneous coronary intervention. A longitudinal design was conducted with two repeated rounds of measurements, 1 and 3 months after intervention, using the generic SF-36 questionnaire, in 120 patients from Vietnam National Heart Institute. A linear mixed-effects model was used to assess changes in patient QoL over time while adjusting for other covariates. Only two out of eight QoL subscales (social functioning and emotional well-being) declined after 1 month, but these tended to rise again after 3 months, while scores of all other QoL subscales increased. Adjusting for covariates, QoL increased slightly after 1 month of intervention (β = 0.65, 95%CI = -0.86 to 2.16) but improved by almost six QoL points after 3 months (β = 5.99, 95%CI = 4.48 to 7.50). Four confounders significantly associated with a decline in QoL were older age, being retired, living in rural areas, and having abnormal troponin level. QoL of the patients with unstable angina improves significantly 3 months after intervention, rather than after 1 month. More attention should be given to patients, who are old, retired, live in rural areas and have abnormal troponin level.

Quality of life of patients with critical lower limb ischemia after prolonged spinal cord stimulation

Background. Several previous studies have demonstrated that spinal cord stimulation (SCS) can reduce the amputation rate in patients with critical lower limb ischemia (CLLI) and improve blood circulation parameters of the lower limbs. However, there is a lack of studies on the long-term effects of SCS on the quality of life (QoL) of patients with CLLI. Aim. The present study aimed to assess QoL changes in patients with CLLI after SCS system implantation in the long run (i.e., 30–60 months).Methods. This study included 38 patients with CLLI (10 females, 28 males; age range: 39–83 years) who underwent surgery in 2012–2016. QoL was analyzed using the SF-36 questionnaire before and 30–60 months after SCS. The mortality and amputation rates and amputation levels of the patients were also analyzed. The SF-36 questionnaire scores were normalized according to the data of the respective sex and age groups in the general Russian population. The obtained scores were analyzed in their dynamics and compared with the scores of the general population.Results. The preoperative scores of three of four physical well-being QoL parameters of the patients significantly reduced compared with the scores of the general population (p &lt; 0.001). However, the scores of mental well-being QoL parameters were close to those of the general population. The total physical well-being score reduced (37.9 ± 9.2 points), whereas the total mental well-being score was within the medium range (48.1 ± 8.3 points). At 30–60 months after SCS system implantation, 5 patients or their representatives were unavailable, 12 died, 3 underwent amputation at the tibial level, and 16 showed preserved support function of the legs (2 of these patients underwent toe amputation). SCS system failure was noted in 3 patients. Patients with preserved support function of the legs completed the SF-36 questionnaire at 30–60 months after SCS system implantation. All QoL parameter scores showed increases, and the total postoperative physical well-being score of these patients was close to that of the general population (46.3 ± 10.6 points, p = 0.050 compared with the preoperative score). However, the total mental well-being score of the patients was higher than that of the general population (57.9 ± 3.8 points, p = 0.041). Conclusion. SCS does not reduce the mortality rate in patients with CLLI compared with conservative therapy. However, it reduces the amputation rate in patients who survive. Significant positive changes in QoL persist for a long time after SCS system implantation in most patients. Funding: The study did not have sponsorship. Conflict of interest: Authors declare no conflict of interest.

Longitudinal analysis of quality of life in patients treated for differentiated thyroid cancer.

Earlier cross-sectional studies showed that patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) have a significant reduction of quality of life (QoL) compared to controls. However, recent longitudinal studies showed mixed results and had relative short follow-up or lacked knowledge about QoL before initial surgery. Therefore, we initiated a longitudinal study to assess changes of QoL in patients undergoing treatment for DTC. We prospectively included patients, aged 18-80 years, who were treated for DTC at a Dutch university hospital. Using questionnaires, QoL was assessed before surgery, just before radioiodine (RAI) therapy, and regularly during follow-up. Repeated measurement analysis was used to assess changes of QoL over time, and we explored the influence of different characteristics on QoL. Longitudinal QoL assessments were available in 185 patients (mean age 47 years; 71% women). All patients were treated according to the Dutch guidelines with total thyroidectomy followed by RAI (83% after thyroid hormone withdrawal). Median time between baseline and final questionnaire was 31 months, and patients completed a median of three questionnaires. QoL at baseline was lower than that in the general population, developed non-linear over time, was lowest around RAI therapy, and recovered over time. Females, younger patients, and patients with persistent hypoparathyroidism had lower QoL scores. In a population of DTC patients, QoL before initial therapy is already lower than that in the general population. Thereafter, QoL develops non-linearly over time in general, with the lowest QoL around RAI therapy, while 2 to 3 years later, it approximates baseline values.

Impact of Chemotherapy-induced Menopause in Women of Childbearing Age With Non-metastatic Breast Cancer – Preliminary Results From the MENOCOR Study

BackgroundYoung patients with breast cancer treated with chemotherapy can experience ovarian failure, which can lead to chemotherapy-induced menopause (CIM) impacting the quality of life (QoL). A prospective study was set out to evaluate the impact of CIM on QoL in women of childbearing age with non-metastatic breast cancer, and this article reports results of the interim analysis conducted to evaluate feasibility and to see preliminary results. Patients and MethodsA total of 58 women (age, 18-46 years) with newly diagnosed breast cancer and treated with chemotherapy were eligible. QoL was assessed by self-administered questionnaires (Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 [QLQ-C30], Quality of Life Questionnaire-Breast 23 [QLQ-BR23], and Kupperman index) and hormonal variations (anti-Müllerian hormone [AMH], follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol) were explored. We compared patients with ≥ 12 months amenorrhea (CIM) (n = 41) to patients with < 12 months of amenorrhea (non-CIM) (n = 17). ResultsA good inclusion rate (approximately 4/month) and sufficient data enabled us to perform this analysis. QLQ-C30 failed to show any difference between CIM and non-CIM patients (P = .5). In contrast, at 6 months post-chemotherapy, CIM patients tended to have lower QoL as shown by QLQ-BR23 (P = .16) and more severe climacteric symptoms (P = .01). Regarding hormonal variations, AMH pre-treatment level was higher in non-CIM patients (P = .0032). We also noted that CIM patients were older (P = .00013), had shorter menstruation cycle (P = .082), and experienced faster amenorrhea (P = .088). ConclusionsThe study is technically feasible, and our preliminary results underline that age in association with pre-treatment AMH level could be helpful to predict ovarian function. QLQ-BR23 seemed to be stronger, more precise, and appropriate to evaluate QoL changes in patients with breast cancer than the QLQ-C30.

Patient-reported Quality of Life during Photon and Proton Radiation Therapy: Results of a Prospective Registry of Patient Reported Outcomes in a Large-Volume, Multi-Site Practice

Patient reported outcomes such as quality of life (QOL) are increasingly utilized to assess quality and value of medical care. In 2015 we instituted a prospective patient outcomes registry and biobank to evaluate patient reported toxicities, clinical outcomes, and QOL in a large, multi-site practice to establish quality metrics as well as correlate genetic factors with patient outcomes. In this first report, we aimed to evaluate early QOL changes in patients receiving fractionated external beam (proton/photon) radiotherapy (RT). Institutional prospective outcomes registry was utilized to identify all patients treated with curative intent RT receiving >14 fractions of RT who had completed both a baseline and end of RT PROMIS10 questionnaire between July 1, 2015 and December 31, 2017. PROMIS10 uses a 5-point Likert scale and allows measurements of symptoms, functioning, and healthcare-related QOL. Scores were dichotomized into normal/near-normal (4,5) vs all other (1-3) for individual item analysis. Decline in QOL was defined as a ≥2-point change in score as compared to baseline for each question analyzed by individual patient responses. Baseline scores, as well as change in scores from baseline to end of RT, were compared between patient groups using a Wilcoxon rank sum test. Chi-square analysis was performed for associations of QOL and patient and treatment factors. Of 3297 eligible patients, 2203 (67%) completed baseline and end of RT questionnaires and included in this analysis. Mean age was 61.8 years (range 18.5-94.4); 45% were female and 27% received proton RT. Distribution of disease sites treated are as follows: breast (25%), prostate (21%), gastrointestinal (15%), head/neck (14%), central nervous system (9%), sarcoma (5%), lung (4%), lymphoma (2%), and gynecologic (2%). For each of the 10 questions/domains, 10% or fewer of patients experienced declines in QOL at the end of RT. Greater than 10% declines in physical domains of QOL were seen in head/neck, gastrointestinal, and lung patients. Younger age and higher-stage was associated with lower global physical and mental health scores (p<0.001 for each) at the end of therapy. Patients receiving proton RT reported less impairment in carrying out daily physical activities at baseline (19% vs 25%, p <0.01) but there were no significant differences in baseline global QOL scores. Proton RT was associated with less decline in global physical score but the difference is small (median 0 vs -2.5, p<0.01) and likely due to less fatigue (50% vs 55%, p=0.02) and less difficulty carrying out daily physical activities (24% vs 34%, p<0.01) reported at the end of treatment. In a large multi-site practice, PROMIS10 survey appears useful in documenting changes in QOL in the acute setting. Proton RT may be associated with reduced declines in physical QOL. Further efforts to improve compliance with end-of-treatment surveys are ongoing.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Hoarseness (Dysphonia) (Update) Executive Summary.

Objective This guideline provides evidence-based recommendations on treating patients presenting with dysphonia, which is characterized by altered vocal quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication and/or quality of life. Dysphonia affects nearly one-third of the population at some point in its life. This guideline applies to all age groups evaluated in a setting where dysphonia would be identified or managed. It is intended for all clinicians who are likely to diagnose and treat patients with dysphonia. Purpose The primary purpose of this guideline is to improve the quality of care for patients with dysphonia, based on current best evidence. Expert consensus to fill evidence gaps, when used, is explicitly stated and supported with a detailed evidence profile for transparency. Specific objectives of the guideline are to reduce inappropriate variations in care, produce optimal health outcomes, and minimize harm. For this guideline update, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation selected a panel representing the fields of advanced practice nursing, bronchoesophagology, consumer advocacy, family medicine, geriatric medicine, internal medicine, laryngology, neurology, otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, pediatrics, professional voice, pulmonology, and speech-language pathology. Action Statements The guideline update group made strong recommendations for the following key action statements (KASs): (1) Clinicians should assess the patient with dysphonia by history and physical examination to identify factors where expedited laryngeal evaluation is indicated. These include but are not limited to recent surgical procedures involving the head, neck, or chest; recent endotracheal intubation; presence of concomitant neck mass; respiratory distress or stridor; history of tobacco abuse; and whether the patient is a professional voice user. (2) Clinicians should advocate voice therapy for patients with dysphonia from a cause amenable to voice therapy. The guideline update group made recommendations for the following KASs: (1) Clinicians should identify dysphonia in a patient with altered voice quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication or reduces quality of life (QOL). (2) Clinicians should assess the patient with dysphonia by history and physical examination for underlying causes of dysphonia and factors that modify management. (3) Clinicians should perform laryngoscopy, or refer to a clinician who can perform laryngoscopy, when dysphonia fails to resolve or improve within 4 weeks or irrespective of duration if a serious underlying cause is suspected. (4) Clinicians should perform diagnostic laryngoscopy, or refer to a clinician who can perform diagnostic laryngoscopy, before prescribing voice therapy and document/communicate the results to the speech-language pathologist (SLP). (5) Clinicians should advocate for surgery as a therapeutic option for patients with dysphonia with conditions amenable to surgical intervention, such as suspected malignancy, symptomatic benign vocal fold lesions that do not respond to conservative management, or glottic insufficiency. (6) Clinicians should offer, or refer to a clinician who can offer, botulinum toxin injections for the treatment of dysphonia caused by spasmodic dysphonia and other types of laryngeal dystonia. (7) Clinicians should inform patients with dysphonia about control/preventive measures. (8) Clinicians should document resolution, improvement or worsened symptoms of dysphonia, or change in QOL of patients with dysphonia after treatment or observation. The guideline update group made a strong recommendation against 1 action: (1) Clinicians should not routinely prescribe antibiotics to treat dysphonia. The guideline update group made recommendations against other actions: (1) Clinicians should not obtain computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for patients with a primary voice complaint prior to visualization of the larynx. (2) Clinicians should not prescribe antireflux medications to treat isolated dysphonia, based on symptoms alone attributed to suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), without visualization of the larynx. (3) Clinicians should not routinely prescribe corticosteroids in patients with dysphonia prior to visualization of the larynx. The policy level for the following recommendation about laryngoscopy at any time was an option: (1) Clinicians may perform diagnostic laryngoscopy at any time in a patient with dysphonia. Differences from Prior Guideline (1) Incorporating new evidence profiles to include the role of patient preferences, confidence in the evidence, differences of opinion, quality improvement opportunities, and any exclusion to which the action statement does not apply (2) Inclusion of 3 new guidelines, 16 new systematic reviews, and 4 new randomized controlled trials (3) Inclusion of a consumer advocate on the guideline update group (4) Changes to 9 KASs from the original guideline (5) New KAS 3 (escalation of care) and KAS 13 (outcomes) (6) Addition of an algorithm outlining KASs for patients with dysphonia.

Clinical Practice Guideline: Hoarseness (Dysphonia) (Update).

ObjectiveThis guideline provides evidence‐based recommendations on treating patients who present with dysphonia, which is characterized by altered vocal quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication and/or quality of life. Dysphonia affects nearly one‐third of the population at some point in its life. This guideline applies to all age groups evaluated in a setting where dysphonia would be identified or managed. It is intended for all clinicians who are likely to diagnose and treat patients with dysphonia.PurposeThe primary purpose of this guideline is to improve the quality of care for patients with dysphonia, based on current best evidence. Expert consensus to fill evidence gaps, when used, is explicitly stated and supported with a detailed evidence profile for transparency. Specific objectives of the guideline are to reduce inappropriate variations in care, produce optimal health outcomes, and minimize harm.For this guideline update, the American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation selected a panel representing the fields of advanced practice nursing, bronchoesophagology, consumer advocacy, family medicine, geriatric medicine, internal medicine, laryngology, neurology, otolaryngology–head and neck surgery, pediatrics, professional voice, pulmonology, and speech‐language pathology.Action StatementsThe guideline update group made strong recommendations for the following key action statements (KASs): (1) Clinicians should assess the patient with dysphonia by history and physical examination to identify factors where expedited laryngeal evaluation is indicated. These include, but are not limited to, recent surgical procedures involving the head, neck, or chest; recent endotracheal intubation; presence of concomitant neck mass; respiratory distress or stridor; history of tobacco abuse; and whether the patient is a professional voice user. (2) Clinicians should advocate voice therapy for patients with dysphonia from a cause amenable to voice therapy.The guideline update group made recommendations for the following KASs: (1) Clinicians should identify dysphonia in a patient with altered voice quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication or reduces quality of life (QOL). (2) Clinicians should assess the patient with dysphonia by history and physical examination for underlying causes of dysphonia and factors that modify management. (3) Clinicians should perform laryngoscopy, or refer to a clinician who can perform laryngoscopy, when dysphonia fails to resolve or improve within 4 weeks or irrespective of duration if a serious underlying cause is suspected. (4) Clinicians should perform diagnostic laryngoscopy, or refer to a clinician who can perform diagnostic laryngoscopy, before prescribing voice therapy and document/communicate the results to the speech‐language pathologist (SLP). (5) Clinicians should advocate for surgery as a therapeutic option for patients with dysphonia with conditions amenable to surgical intervention, such as suspected malignancy, symptomatic benign vocal fold lesions that do not respond to conservative management, or glottic insufficiency. (6) Clinicians should offer, or refer to a clinician who can offer, botulinum toxin injections for the treatment of dysphonia caused by spasmodic dysphonia and other types of laryngeal dystonia. (7) Clinicians should inform patients with dysphonia about control/preventive measures. (8) Clinicians should document resolution, improvement or worsened symptoms of dysphonia, or change in QOL of patients with dysphonia after treatment or observation.The guideline update group made a strong recommendation against 1 action: (1) Clinicians should not routinely prescribe antibiotics to treat dysphonia. The guideline update group made recommendations against other actions: (1) Clinicians should not obtain computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for patients with a primary voice complaint prior to visualization of the larynx. (2) Clinicians should not prescribe antireflux medications to treat isolated dysphonia, based on symptoms alone attributed to suspected gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), without visualization of the larynx. (3) Clinicians should not routinely prescribe corticosteroids for patients with dysphonia prior to visualization of the larynx.The policy level for the following recommendation about laryngoscopy at any time was an option: (1) Clinicians may perform diagnostic laryngoscopy at any time in a patient with dysphonia.DisclaimerThis clinical practice guideline is not intended as an exhaustive source of guidance for managing dysphonia (hoarseness). Rather, it is designed to assist clinicians by providing an evidence‐based framework for decision‐making strategies. The guideline is not intended to replace clinical judgment or establish a protocol for all individuals with this condition, and it may not provide the only appropriate approach to diagnosing and managing this problem.Differences from Prior Guideline(1) Incorporation of new evidence profiles to include the role of patient preferences, confidence in the evidence, differences of opinion, quality improvement opportunities, and any exclusion to which the action statement does not apply(2) Inclusion of 3 new guidelines, 16 new systematic reviews, and 4 new randomized controlled trials(3) Inclusion of a consumer advocate on the guideline update group(4) Changes to 9 KASs from the original guideline(5) New KAS 3 (escalation of care) and KAS 13 (outcomes)(6) Addition of an algorithm outlining KASs for patients with dysphonia

The Association Between Weight Loss and Quality of Life 1 and 5Years After Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass in Danish Bariatric Patients.

Laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB) is effective to achieve significant weight loss, as well as improvement of comorbidity and quality of life (QoL) in obese patients. Several studies have examined whether weight loss can predict the change in QoL after LRYGB but results vary and follow-up is short. The aim of this study was to examine the association between weight loss and change in QoL at 1- and 5-year follow-up after LRYGB. The study was a cohort study with 1- and 5-year follow-up, based on data consecutively recorded at the Private Hospital Mølholm, Denmark. Before LRYGB (baseline), 3371 severely obese patients filled in the questionnaire that included information on weight and QoL. The patients were invited to fill in a similar questionnaire at 1- and at 5-year follow-up. The response rate at 1 and 5years was 71 and 63%, respectively. Among the respondents, there was a positive, significant association between weight loss and change in QoL at both 1- and 5-year follow-up after LRYGB. Weight loss and change in QoL peaked after 1year but remained significantly different from baseline at 5-year follow-up. This study showed that weight loss after LRYGB predicts the change in QoL of patients 1 and 5years after surgery. Furthermore, both weight loss and change in QoL peaked after 1year but remained significant at 5-year follow-up.

Changes in patient quality of life during oral immunotherapy for food allergy.

Quality of life (QOL) is impaired in patients with food allergy and improves following oral immunotherapy (OIT). However, the treatment itself is prolonged and demanding. We examined changes in patient QOL during OIT for food allergy. The FAQLQ-PF was administered to children aged 4-12 years undergoing OIT for milk, peanut, or egg allergy, at the beginning and after 4 months of treatment. Patients were categorized as improved, unchanged, or diminished FAQLQ-PF (>0.5 point decrease, a change of ≤0.5 points, or >0.5 increase, respectively) and compared. Food-allergic patients not undergoing OIT served as controls. The Food Anxiety, Social and Dietary Limitation, and total FAQLQ-PF scores improved significantly during the study period (P=.001, P=.018, and P=.01, respectively) in treated but not in control patients, while the Emotional Impact did not. The change in the FAQLQ-PF was independent of the maximal tolerated dose at baseline or following four months of treatment, the pace of dose increase, or the number or severity of reactions experienced. The total FAQLQ-PF score was inversely associated with the score at baseline on multivariate analysis (regression coefficient=-0.56, P<.001). That was driven primarily by improvement in QOL scores in patients with high score (worse QOL) at baseline. Some patients with low FAQLQ-PF score (better QOL) at baseline deteriorated. QOL of patients with food allergy improves in some but deteriorates in others during OIT. Patients with impaired QOL at baseline improve significantly despite the treatment burden. Some patients with better QOL at baseline might deteriorate during OIT.

Impaired quality of life in patients with treated acromegaly despite long-term biochemically stable disease: Results from a 5-years prospective study.

Patients with acromegaly demonstrate impaired quality of life (QoL), but data on long-term QoL changes in treated acromegaly are limited. This study evaluates and identifies factors that influence QoL in patients with long-term biochemical remission. The study consists of a cross-sectional arm comparing QoL between patients with treated and controlled acromegaly and healthy controls; and a longitudinal arm assessing QoL changes in patients with biochemically stable disease during 5.7±0.6years of follow-up. A total of 58 patients and 116 matched controls were recruited for the cross-sectional arm; 28 patients completed the longitudinal arm. Three generic questionnaires (Psychological General Well-Being Schedule [PGWBS], 36-item Short-Form [SF-36], EuroQoL [EQ-5D]) and the disease-specific acromegaly QoL questionnaire (AcroQoL) were applied. Quality of life assessment was performed 11.6±8.2years following diagnosis and treatment of acromegaly. Patients with treated acromegaly had lower QoL scores compared with controls in all questionnaires with the exception of the PGWBS "Anxiety" subscale. The AcroQoL "Appearance" subscale and the "Physical Function" subscales of the remaining questionnaires were the most underscored domains. No difference in the total and subscale scores of all questionnaires was observed between baseline and follow-up, with the exception of the SF-36 "Physical Function," where a decline was found (58.5±24.7% vs 43.1±31.1%; P=.002). However, after adjusting for covariates, no significant change in any of the QoL scores was seen. Duration of IGF-1/GH control was positively correlated with QoL scores in most questionnaires at baseline, whereas use of GH lowering therapy at the time of QoL assessment was a negative predictive factor of QoL. Patients with biochemically controlled acromegaly demonstrate impaired QoL, which persists despite long-term disease control. This primarily consists of impaired physical function and secondly of impaired psycho-social well-being. Duration of biochemical disease control and current use of GH lowering therapy was the predominant factors determining patients' QoL.

Predictors of Change in Quality of Life in Patients With End-Stage Disease During Hospitalization.

Currently, there are no studies aimed at evaluating the quality of life (QoL) of patients with end-stage disease during hospitalization and the factors that influence it. The aim of the research was to identify predictors of change in the QoL of patients hospitalized due to advanced stage of disease. The sample consisted of 140 patients with end-stage disease who were hospitalized on this account. For evaluation of QoL, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30) was used. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Karnofsky Performance Status questionnaires were used for the assessment of mental and functional status. For the evaluation of predictors of negative change in QoL, a logistic regression analysis was used. During hospitalization, there was a significant deterioration in the scores given for all domains of the functional QLQ-C30 scale, but not the symptomatic scale. Predictors of change in overall QoL detected were marital status, improved functional status, and depression detected on admission to hospital. Gender and age were found to be protective factors against deterioration in overall QoL. Sociodemographic characteristics and mental and functional status may be associated with change in QoL of patients with end-stage disease during hospitalization.