Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale Research Articles

Chronic post-stroke fatigue: It may no longer be about the stroke itself

ObjectivePost-stroke fatigue (PSF) is a debilitating complication of stroke recovery. Contributing risk factors, whether they are modifiable, and if they change over time remain understudied. We determine factors associated with PSF and how they evolve from the subacute through chronic phases of recovery. Patients and methodsA consecutive series of patients presenting to our comprehensive stroke center with acute stroke were seen in follow-up within 6 months of infarct and administered the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) fatigue scale to evaluate for PSF. It was re-administered >6 months post-infarct. Demographics, stroke characteristics (NIH Stroke Scale [NIHSS], infarct size and location), medical comorbidities, and outcomes (modified Rankin Scale [mRS]) were also recorded. Regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with FACIT scores and PSF at each time point. Results203 patients were administered the FACIT a mean 1.6 months post-stroke; 128 underwent re-administration (mean 13.9 months post-event). In adjusted models, stroke severity (follow-up NIHSS [p < 0.001], mRS [p = 0.005]) and posterior circulation localization (p = 0.012) were associated with lower FACIT scores (increased fatigue) in the subacute setting, while medical comorbidities (hypertension [p = 0.024], obstructive sleep apnea [p = 0.020]) and medication use (anticonvulsants [p = 0.021]) were associated with lower scores chronically. Baseline depression (p < 0.001, p = 0.029) was associated with lower scores at both time points. ConclusionEarly PSF appears to be largely attributable to stroke severity, while chronic fatigue occurs in the setting of medical comorbidities and medication use. This has significant clinical implications when considering management strategies at different stages of recovery.

A Two-Arm Randomized Pilot Study to Evaluate the Impact of a Mobile Health App on Quality of Life in Patients on Oral Anti-Cancer Medications

Background: CORA is a personalized smartphone-based self-management app designed to help cancer patients on oral anti-cancer medications manage medication, medication side-effects, and symptoms with the overall goal of improving their quality of life. Objective: To evaluate the effect of CORA on quality of life in patients on oral anti-cancer medications. Methods: Eighty-four patients were randomized to either an intervention group that received CORA plus usual care or a control group that received usual care. Quality of life was measured using the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) scale administered at enrollment, 6 and 12 weeks. Engagement with the app was assessed by determining the unique days using the app. We evaluated the effect of engagement on FACIT-F both as a continuous variable (days using the app) and as a categorical outcome (low, medium, and high). Group differences for all outcomes over the study period were assessed using repeated measures mixed model analysis. Results: Relative to the control group, the intervention group improved FACIT-F by 0.36 (95% CI 0.10-0.61) P=.006 per week over the study period. As a continuous variable, each additional day using the app was significantly associated with an improved FACIT-F score per week in the study [0.0060 (95% CI -0.000034-0.012), P=.05]. Within the intervention group that used the app, those who were most engaged with the app were significantly more likely to improve their quality of life over the study relative to the least engaged group [0.37 per week (95% CI 0.19-1.94), P=.05]. Conclusions: CORA may have significantly improved quality of life (FACIT-F) in cancer patients over 12 weeks. Smartphone applications may positively impact health and behavioral outcomes in cancer patients on oral anti-cancer medications.

Flares in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients with Low Disease Activity: Predictability and Association with Worse Clinical Outcomes.

To investigate predictors of flare in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with low disease activity (LDA) and to evaluate the effect of flare on 12-month clinical outcomes. Patients with RA who were taking disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs and had a stable 28-joint count Disease Activity Score (DAS28) < 3.2 were eligible for inclusion. At baseline and every 3 months, clinical (DAS28), functional [Health Assessment Questionnaire-Disability Index (HAQ-DI), EQ-5D, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue scale (FACIT-F), Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 (SF-36)], serum biomarkers [multibiomarker disease activity (MBDA) score, calprotectin, CXCL10], and imaging data were collected. Flare was defined as an increase in DAS28 compared with baseline of > 1.2, or > 0.6 if concurrent DAS28 ≥ 3.2. Cox regression analyses were used to identify baseline predictors of flare. Biomarkers were cross-sectionally correlated at time of flare. Linear regressions were performed to compare clinical outcomes after 1 year. Of 152 patients, 46 (30%) experienced a flare. Functional disability at baseline was associated with flare: HAQ-DI had an unadjusted HR 1.82 (95% CI 1.20-2.72) and EQ-5D had HR 0.20 (95% CI 0.07-0.57). In multivariate analyses, only HAQ-DI remained a significant independent predictor of flare (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.05-2.93). At time of flare, DAS28 and its components significantly correlated with MBDA and calprotectin, but correlation coefficients were low at 0.52 and 0.49, respectively. Two-thirds of flares were not associated with a rise in biomarkers. Patients who flared had significantly worse outcomes at 12 months (HAQ-DI, EQ-5D, FACIT-F, SF-36, and radiographic progression). Flares occur frequently in RA patients with LDA and are associated with worse disease activity, quality of life, and radiographic progression. Higher baseline HAQ-DI was modestly predictive of flare, while biomarker correlation at the time of flare suggests a noninflammatory component in a majority of events.

Abstract A55: A prospective geriatric breast cancer cohort study to define unique features and outcomes in older breast cancer patients

Abstract Background: Adults over age 65 are the fastes- growing segment of the US population. However, clinicians have less evidence of how to treat older adults, because they are underrepresented in clinical trials, and studies designed specifically for older adults are rare. Therefore, clinicians have to extrapolate from trials conducted in younger, healthier populations when developing treatment plans for older adults. Over 40% of new breast cancer diagnoses in the US occur in women aged over 65 years. In general, breast cancer in the older woman has distinct biologic features, including less aggressive characteristics and greater expression of estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor. Increasing age is associated with higher rates of comorbidity and frailty, which has been shown to potentially reduce the survival advantage of more aggressive breast cancer therapies. We are conducting a prospective cohort study of adults &amp;gt; or = 65 years with a new diagnosis of breast cancer (OSU-16153) in order to better understand the complex health issues faced by this population, and to collect data with which to support future studies designed to improve the management of these patients. Specific Aims: 1) To assess overall and progression-free survival of breast cancer patients ages 65 and older seen in the Breast Medical Oncology clinics at the Stefanie Spielman Comprehensive Breast Center at The Ohio State University; 2) to examine the association of demographic, diagnostic, and treatment data with patient outcomes, such as progression-free and overall survival, within this patient population; 3) to evaluate the unique needs of breast cancer patients ages 65 and older by implementing a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) within the Breast Medical Oncology clinics at The Ohio State University. Methods: The study will enroll patients &amp;gt; or = 65 years with a new diagnosis of breast cancer. Participants will complete a brief baseline questionnaire, including items addressing demographics, lifestyle, and health history. Patients will then be asked to complete a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) at the time of enrollment, and approximately every six months while on follow-up. The CGA contains both performance-based assessments of patients’ function, completed by study staff, as well as the patients’ self-reports of symptoms and quality of life. The CGA contains a multifaceted battery of clinical instruments including the PROMIS Global Short Form, Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Breast (FACT-B), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) Fatigue Scale, The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Geriatric Depression Scale, The James Supportive Care Screening Tool, Timed Up &amp; Go Test, Grip Strength, Blessed Orientation-Memory-Concentration Test, Mini-Cog Test, Charlson Comorbidity Index, Mini Nutritional Assessment, Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. Participant medical records will be reviewed every three months to assess survival, disease progression, and treatment changes. All questionnaire data will be completed using iPads, and will be directly recorded into the REDCap database. Electronic medical records will be reviewed by research staff, and relevant data will be manually entered into the REDCap database. The aim is to enroll 1,000 participants, and the recruitment period will be five years from study initiation. Participants will be followed for five years from the time of enrollment, resulting in a total study length of ten years. The study opened to accrual on 18 April 2017. To date 3 patients have been enrolled and have completed baseline assessments. Citation Format: Anne M. Noonan, Janine A. Overcash, Anupama Suresh, Laura K. Flora, Julie Stephens, Geetika Bhatt, Raquel Reinbolt, Nicole O. Williams, Robert Wesolowski, Jeffrey B. VanDeusen, Sagar D. Sardesai, Maryam B. Lustberg, Bhuvaneswari Ramaswamy. A prospective geriatric breast cancer cohort study to define unique features and outcomes in older breast cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Special Conference: Advances in Breast Cancer Research; 2017 Oct 7-10; Hollywood, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Res 2018;16(8_Suppl):Abstract nr A55.

Tailored exercise interventions to reduce fatigue in cancer survivors: study protocol of a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundCancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common and distressing symptom of cancer and/or cancer treatment that persists for years after treatment completion in approximately one third of cancer survivors. Exercise is beneficial for the management of CRF, and general exercise guidelines for cancer survivors are available. There are multiple potential pathways by which exercise improves CRF, and cancer survivors with CRF are diverse with respect to cancer type, treatments and experienced side effects. While the general exercise guidelines are likely sufficient for most cancer survivors, tailoring of exercise interventions may be more effective in those with persistent fatigue. The primary aim of this research is to investigate the effect of a traditional vs. tailored exercise intervention on CRF severity in cancer survivors with persistent CRF.Methods/designCancer survivors (≥ 3 months and ≤ 5 years since primary treatment) who score ≤ 34 on the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) will be randomly allocated to one of two parallel treatment arms: traditional (active control) and tailored exercise. Participants in the traditional exercise group will engage in aerobic and resistance exercise that is consistent with exercise guidelines for cancer survivors. The tailored exercise group will be prescribed an intervention designed to address individual deficits identified at baseline, such as loss of muscular strength, cardiorespiratory deconditioning or sleep disturbance. Participants will be assessed before and after the intervention for CRF severity and other patient-reported outcomes, neuromuscular function and fatigue in response to whole-body exercise, sleep quantity and quality, physical activity levels, cardiorespiratory fitness and blood biomarkers.DiscussionTo our knowledge, this will be the first study to compare the effects of a traditional vs. tailored exercise intervention on CRF severity in cancer survivors with persistent CRF. Using physiological, behavioural and patient-reported outcomes, this study will add to the current knowledge about both the factors contributing to CRF, and the potential reduction in CRF severity with an exercise intervention.Trial registrationThe study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03049384), February, 2017.

Investigation of the relationship among fatigue, self-efficacy and quality of life during chemotherapy in patients with breast, lung or gastrointestinal cancer.

To explore the relationship between fatigue and self-efficacy, and quality of life (QoL) during chemotherapy of patients with breast, lung or gastrointestinal cancers. This study is a descriptive-correlational research. The study population comprised of patients with breast, lung and gastrointestinal cancer treated at the outpatient chemotherapy unit. Patients' self-efficacy and QoL were assessed using Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale and Strategies Used by Patients to Promote Health scale. The sample included 236 patients receiving chemotherapy for lung cancer (30.9%), gastrointestinal (25.8%) or breast cancers (25.4%). The patients had little confidence in performing self-care self-efficacy during chemotherapy for the management of illness and chemotherapy-related side effects. The study found that the patients with cancer were moderately fatigued and all the domains of QoL of patientswith cancer undergoing chemotherapy were considerablyimpaired. Positive correlations were found between self-efficacy scores and fatigue scores (p<0.001), and QoL scores (p<0.001). Better self-efficacy beliefs were associated with better QoL and lower fatigue. Improving the cancer patients' self-confidence in performing self-care behaviours may have a positive impact on performing cognitive and behavioural fatigue management strategies and can influence positively the patients' QoL during chemotherapy.

Mental health, fatigue and function are associated with increased risk of disease flare following TNF inhibitor tapering in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: an exploratory analysis of data from the Optimizing TNF Tapering in RA (OPTTIRA) trial

BackgroundTapering of anti-tumour necrosis factor (TNF) therapy appears feasible, safe and effective in selected patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Depression is highly prevalent in RA and may impact on flare...

Symptom Severity and Quality of Life Among Long-term Colorectal Cancer Survivors Compared With Matched Control Subjects: A Population-Based Study.

Data are lacking regarding physical functioning, psychological well-being, and quality of life among colorectal cancer survivors >10 years postdiagnosis. The purpose of this study was to examine self-reported physical functioning, quality of life, and psychological well-being in long-term colorectal cancer survivors compared with age- and sex-matched unaffected control subjects. Participants completed a cross-sectional survey. The colorectal cancer survivors and unaffected control subjects were recruited from the Ontario Familial Colorectal Cancer Registry. A population-based sample of colorectal cancer survivors (N = 296) and their age- and sex-matched unaffected control subjects (N = 255) were included. Survivors were, on average, 15 years postdiagnosis. Quality of life was measured with the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General scale, bowel dysfunction with the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center scale, urinary dysfunction with the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form, fatigue with the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale, and depression with the Center for Epidemiologic Studies-Depression scale. In linear mixed-model analyses adjusting for income, education, race, and comorbid medical conditions, survivors reported good emotional, functional, physical, and overall quality of life, comparable to control subjects. Fatigue and urinary functioning did not differ significantly between survivors and control subjects. Survivors reported significantly higher social quality of life and lower depression compared with unaffected control subjects. The only area where survivors reported significantly worse deficits was in bowel dysfunction, but the magnitude of differences was relatively small. Generalizability is limited by moderately low participation rates. Findings are likely biased toward healthy participants. No baseline assessment was available to examine change in outcomes over time. Long-term colorectal cancer survivors appear to have comparable quality of life and, in some areas, better well-being than their unaffected peers. Bowel dysfunction may continue to be an ongoing issue even 15 years after colorectal cancer diagnosis. Overall quality of life can be expected to be good in this group of older survivors. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A476.

Neuromuscular fatigue is weakly associated with perception of fatigue and function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

To assess electromyographic parameters of neuromuscular fatigue in knee extensors and their association with clinical, functional and emotional features in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Thirty-eight female patients with RA participated. Electromyography parameters (changes in signal amplitude, represented by the root mean square, and frequency content, represented by median frequency-MDF) were assessed during a submaximal (60%) isometric contraction of the knee extensors, sustained for 60s. Clinical characteristics; the 28-joint Disease Activity Score (DAS-28) in which includes count of swollen joints (out of the 28) and tender joints (out of the 28), the erythrocyte sedimentation rate and global disease activity measured on a visual analogue scale; serum C reactive protein (CRP); information on treatment; the Health Assessment Questionnaire; the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy fatigue scale (FACIT-F); the Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ), were also assessed. The mean patient age was 51.0 ± 8.2years, mean disease activity score was 11.5 ± 7.1, and mean CRP level was 8.0 ± 7.8mg/dL. There was a moderate correlation between MDF and age (r = 0.5), as well as weak correlations of MDF with FACIT-F (r = 0.3), physical functioning (r = - 0.3) and vitality domains (r = - 0.3) of the SF-36, and IPAQ (r = - 0.3) (p ≤ 0.05 for all). No association was observed between electromyography measurements and clinical or treatment features. The electromyographic parameter MDF was correlated with perception of fatigue, age, physical functioning and vitality domains of SF-36, and physical activity level in this sample. These results indicate that primary muscle factors should also be considered when managing perceived fatigue in patients with RA.

A structured group exercise program for patients with metastatic cancer receiving chemotherapy and CTNNB1 (β-catenin) as a biomarker of exercise efficacy.

IntroductionExercise can improve the symptoms of cancer. However, is it a cancer treatment? We tested the feasibility of group exercise for metastatic cancer patients while on chemotherapy. A biomarker for exercise efficacy in colorectal cancer (CRC), β-catenin, was tested.MethodsPatients undergoing palliative chemotherapy were eligible for a pre–post, single-arm study comprising an indefinite, weekly group exercise intervention using strength and aerobic training. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) and Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS) questionnaires were administered, and aerobic capacity assessed using the 6-minute walk test. Selection bias, as measured by invitation rate, as well as participation, compliance, and attrition rates, was measured. CRC patients had surgical sections stained for β-catenin and correlated to survival. The statistical analysis was primarily exploratory and hypothesis generating.ResultsOf the 124 eligible patients, 53 (43%) patients were invited and 35 (28%) patients participated. The median number of classes attended was 16, the compliance rate was 73.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 67.0–79.4), and the modified attrition rate was 24%. There were no injuries. No significant improvements were seen in the FACIT or PFS at 30 weeks. Aerobic capacity significantly improved at 30 weeks. Participation of CRC patients in the exercise pilot vs nonparticipation was not associated with a change in survival (hazard ratio [HR] =0.98, 95% CI 0.32–2.97). For all CRC patients, strong nuclear staining for β-catenin, compared to weak, suggested a lower risk of mortality (HR =0.54, 95% CI 0.14–1.96). However, CRC participants in the exercise program with weak nuclear staining for β-catenin had a trend to lower mortality (HR =0.39, 95% CI 0.025–6.1).ConclusionExercise for patients with metastatic cancer receiving chemotherapy is feasible and safe. β-Catenin is a potential biomarker for exercise anticancer effect in CRC.

A systematic review of measurement properties of patient reported outcome measures in psoriatic arthritis: A GRAPPA-OMERACT initiative.

An updated psoriatic arthritis (PsA) core outcome set (COS) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was endorsed at the Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) meeting in 2016. To synthesize the evidence on measurement properties of patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) for PsA and thereby contribute to development of a PsA core outcome measurement set (COMS) as described by the OMERACT Filter 2.0. A systematic literature search was performed in EMBASE, MEDLINE and PsycINFO on Jan 1, 2017 to identify full-text articles with an aim of assessing the measurement properties of PROMs in PsA. Two independent reviewers rated the quality of studies using the COnsensus based standards for the Selection of health Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) checklist, and performed a qualitative evidence synthesis. Fifty-five studies were included in the systematic review. Forty-four instruments and a total of 89 scales were analyzed. PROMs measuring COS domains with at least fair quality evidence for good validity and reliability (and no evidence for poor properties) included the Stockerau Activity Score for PsA (German), Psoriasis Symptom Inventory, visual analogue scale for Patient Global, 36 Item Short Form Health Survey Physical Function subscale, Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, PsA Impact of Disease questionnaire, PsA Quality of Life questionnaire, VITACORA-19, Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue scale and Social Role Participation Questionnaire. At least one PROM with some evidence for aspects of validity and reliability was available for six of the eight mandatory domains of the PsA COS.

Abstract 4215: Cancer-related fatigue and physical activity vary by age for black women with a history of breast cancer

Abstract Purpose: Cancer-related fatigue is the most discomforting symptom among women with a history of breast cancer. Black women are more likely to experience risk factors for cancer-related fatigue, like physical inactivity and obesity, yet cancer-related fatigue studies have not explicitly focused on Black women. This cross-sectional analysis assesses cancer-related fatigue and physical activity among Black female breast cancer survivors. Methods: In May and July of 2012, 266 members of the Sisters Network, Inc completed an online survey on: demographics, cancer history and treatment, fatigue using the 13-item Function Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT) Fatigue Scale, and engagement in ≥150 minutes per week of physical activity (CDC guideline). Multiple linear regression assessed relationships between fatigue and physical activity. Results: The average participant was 54 (SD=9) with a FACIT score of 13.63, indicating “severe fatigue”. Fatigue was greater (p=0.02) among the 56% of women meeting physical activity guidelines. Multivariable analysis showed that meeting physical activity guidelines (β=-3.01, p=0.01) and higher age group (50-59: -4.75, p=0.001; 60+: -4.38, p=0.01) were associated with greater fatigue. An interaction plot showed that differences in fatigue for those meeting or not meeting physical activity guidelines is largest among Black women under age 50. Conclusions: Meeting physical activity guidelines was associated with greater cancer-related fatigue, which was most pronounced for those under age 50. Interventions for Black breast cancer survivors with cancer-related fatigue should consider physical activities that can be integrated into existing tasks and provide age-appropriate resources to address physical and emotional fatigue domains. Keywords: breast cancer; fatigue; age; Black/African-American; physical activity Citation Format: Melody A. Swen, Amandeep Mann, Raheem Paxton, Lorraine T. Dean. Cancer-related fatigue and physical activity vary by age for black women with a history of breast cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2017; 2017 Apr 1-5; Washington, DC. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2017;77(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 4215. doi:10.1158/1538-7445.AM2017-4215

Measuring fatigue with multiple instruments in a Brazilian cohort of early rheumatoid arthritis patients

ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of fatigue in a Brazilian population with early rheumatoid arthritis using multiple instruments, and the predictors of these instruments by differents independent variables. MethodsCross-sectional study with direct interview and medical records review. Fatigue, dependent variable, was assessed using eight instruments: Profile of Mood States (POMS), Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue scale (MAF), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Bristol Rheumatoid Arthritis Fatigue Multidimensional Questionnaire (BRAF-MDQ), Numerical Rating Scales (BRAF-NRS), Short-form Survey 36 (SF-36), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT-F) and Visual Analogic Scale for Fatigue (VASf). Independent variables: sociodemographic, clinical and serological, were measured using medical records and direct interview. Disability and disease activity were assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and disease activity assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 joints (DAS28). The scores of scales demonstrated the level of fatigue and multiple linear regression method used in statistical analysis to demonstrate prediction models. ResultsA total of 80 patients was assessed, and 57 reported clinically relevant fatigue (VASf>2), representing 71.25% prevalence point (51 women [89.5%], mean age 48.35±15 years, and mean disease duration of 4.92±3.8 years). Eight predictive models showed statistical significance, one for each fatigue instrument. The highest coefficient of determination (R2) was 56% for SF-36 and the lowest (R2=21%) for FSS. The HAQ was the only independent variable to predict fatigue on all instruments. ConclusionClinically relevant fatigue is a highly prevalent symptom and is mostly predicted by disability and age in the population assessed.

Sleep Disturbance in Psoriatic Disease: Prevalence and Associated Factors.

We aimed to determine the prevalence and quality of sleep in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA) and those with psoriasis without PsA (PsC) followed in the same center, to identify factors associated with sleep disturbance, and to compare findings to those of healthy controls (HC). The study included 113 PsA [ClASsification for Psoriatic ARthritis (CASPAR) criteria] and 62 PsC (PsA excluded by a rheumatologist) patients and 52 HC. Clinical variables were collected using a standard protocol. The sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Other patient-reported outcomes collected included the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ), Dermatology Life Quality Index, EQ-5D, Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36 survey, patient's global assessment, and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-fatigue) scale. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, Wilcoxon rank-sum test, and linear regression. The prevalence of poor sleep quality was 84%, 69%, and 50% in PsA, PsC, and HC, respectively. Total PSQI score was higher in both patients with PsA and patients with PsC compared with HC (p < 0.01) and higher in patients with PsA compared to patients with PsC (p < 0.0001). EQ-5D anxiety component, EQ-5D final, and FACIT-fatigue were independently associated with worse PSQI in patients with PsC and those with PsA (p < 0.05). Actively inflamed (tender or swollen) joints are independently associated with worse PSQI in patients with PsA (p < 0.01). Patients with psoriatic disease have poor sleep quality. Poor sleep is associated with fatigue, anxiety, and lower EQ-5D. In patients with PsA, poor sleep is associated with active joint inflammation.

Mensuração da fadiga com múltiplos instrumentos em uma coorte brasileira de pacientes com artrite reumatoide em fase inicial

ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of fatigue in a Brazilian population with early rheumatoid arthritis using multiple instruments, and the predictors of these instruments by differents independent variables. MethodsCross‐sectional study with direct interview and medical records review. Fatigue, dependent variable, was assessed using eight instruments: Profile of Mood States (POMS), Multidimensional Assessment of Fatigue scale (MAF), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), Bristol Rheumatoid Arthritis Fatigue Multidimensional Questionnaire (BRAF‐MDQ), Numerical Rating Scales (BRAF‐NRS), Short‐form Survey 36 (SF‐36), Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue Scale (FACIT‐F) and Visual Analogic Scale for Fatigue (VASf). Independent variables: sociodemographic, clinical and serological, were measured using medical records and direct interview. Disability and disease activity were assessed using the Health Assessment Questionnaire (HAQ) and disease activity assessed using the Disease Activity Score 28 joints (DAS28). The scores of scales demonstrated the level of fatigue and multiple linear regression method used in statistical analysis to demonstrate prediction models. ResultsA total of 80 patients was assessed, and 57 reported clinically relevant fatigue (VASf >2), representing 71.25% prevalence point (51 women [89.5%], mean age 48.35 ±15 years, and mean disease duration of 4.92 ±3.8 years). Eight predictive models showed statistical significance, one for each fatigue instrument. The highest coefficient of determination (R2) was 56% for SF‐36 and the lowest (R2=21%) for FSS. The HAQ was the only independent variable to predict fatigue on all instruments. ConclusionClinically relevant fatigue is a highly prevalent symptom and is mostly predicted by disability and age in the population assessed.

Muscle function in women with systemic sclerosis: Association with fatigue and general physical function

BackgroundIndividuals with systemic sclerosis have muscle functions with varying degrees of muscle weakness and atrophy, which in turn can have a negative impact on functional and health-related quality of life. This study aimed to evaluate peripheral muscle performance using isokinetic dynamometry of the knee in women with systemic sclerosis and to correlate peripheral muscle dysfunction with disability levels and general fatigue. MethodsTwenty-six women with systemic sclerosis and a matched control group with an equal number of women underwent knee isokinetic dynamometry at angular speeds of 75°/s and 240°/s, isometric handgrip strength, the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale, and the Fatigue Impact Scale. FindingsWomen with systemic sclerosis showed significant reductions in almost all isokinetic parameters for the two angular velocities tested compared with the controls. An agonist/antagonist ratio with values <40% was observed in approximately one-third of the patients. These patients had lower isometric handgrip strength. These patients also performed worse on the two general fatigue scales evaluated. Significant correlations were observed between the isokinetic parameters and the measured isometric handgrip strength, and the Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index. InterpretationSystemic sclerosis patients have reduced strength and endurance as well as a muscle imbalance between the quadriceps and hamstrings. In these patients, lower muscle dysfunction of the knee joint is associated with lower handgrip strength and physical incapacity.

Effects of a One-to-One Fatigue Management Course for People With Chronic Conditions and Fatigue.

We assessed the impact of a one-to-one fatigue management course on participants' fatigue, self-efficacy, quality of life, and energy conservation behaviors. This observational study used a one-group, pretest-posttest, follow-up design. Forty-nine people with chronic conditions and fatigue participated in the one-to-one fatigue management course in outpatient and community-based settings. The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale was used to measure fatigue; the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General measured quality of life; and the Self-Efficacy for Performing Energy Conservation Strategies Assessment was used to measure self-efficacy. Participants showed significant reductions in fatigue and significant increases in self-efficacy and quality of life at posttest. These beneficial effects were maintained at follow-up. The Social Well-Being subscale was the only measure on which outcomes did not change significantly. The one-to-one fatigue management course is a beneficial intervention for people with chronic conditions and fatigue.

Effects of zinc supplementation on fatigue and quality of life in patients with colorectal cancer.

ABSTRACTObjective To investigate the effects of oral zinc supplementation on fatigue intensity and quality of life of patients during chemotherapy for colorectal cancer.Methods A prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was conducted with 24 patients on chemotherapy for colorectal adenocarcinoma in a tertiary care public hospital. The study patients received zinc capsules 35mg (Zinc Group, n=10) or placebo (Placebo Group, n=14) orally, twice daily (70mg/day), for 16 weeks, from the immediate postoperative period to the fourth chemotherapy cycle. Approximately 45 days after surgical resection of the tumor, all patients received a chemotherapeutic regimen. Before each of the four cycles of chemotherapy, the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale was completed. We used a linear mixed model for longitudinal data for statistical analysis.Results The scores of quality of life and fatigue questionnaires were similar between the groups during the chemotherapy cycles. The Placebo Group presented worsening of quality of life and increased fatigue between the first and fourth cycles of chemotherapy, but there were no changes in the scores of quality of life or fatigue in the Zinc Group.Conclusion Zinc supplementation prevented fatigue and maintained quality of life of patients with colorectal cancer on chemotherapy.

Breast-related stereotype threat contributes to a symptom cluster in women with breast cancer.

To investigate the prevalence of breast-related stereotype threat and its effects on a symptom cluster consisting of anxiety, depression and fatigue and on each symptom. The stereotype that breasts are a sign of women's femininity results in patients with breast cancer fearing diminished femininity and rejection, which may induce psychological problems that co-occur as a symptom cluster. Cross-sectional study. A total of 131 patients with breast cancer postmastectomy completed the study. A question measuring breast-related stereotype threat, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue Scale were used to assess their breast-related stereotype threat and symptoms of anxiety, depression and fatigue. Of the 131 patients who answered the breast-related stereotype threat question, 86 (65·6%) reported breast-related stereotype threat. They did not differ significantly in social and clinical characteristics compared with those without the stereotype, but did report significantly higher levels of the symptom cluster and each symptom (anxiety, depression and fatigue). The odds ratios of the stereotype were significant for the symptom cluster, depression and fatigue (odds ratios=2·52-3·98, p<0·05). The breast-related stereotype threat was common in patients with breast cancer. There was about a twofold increase in their risk of experiencing the symptom cluster and symptoms of depression and fatigue. In clinical practice, breast-related stereotype threat should be measured together with prevalent symptoms (e.g. anxiety, depression and fatigue) in patients with breast cancer. Our findings will aid the development of interventions for improving the mental health of women with breast cancer.

Relationship between Carnitine Pharmacokinetics and Fatigue in Patients Treated with Cisplatin-Containing Chemotherapy

Background: Approximately 70% of the patients who receive chemotherapy suffer from fatigue, which lowers their quality of life and also has a negative influence on therapeutic efficacy. Previous studies have suggested a relationship between blood carnitine levels and fatigue. We conducted a prospective observational study to examine the relationship between carnitine pharmacokinetics and chemotherapy-induced fatigue in patients receiving cancer chemotherapy regimens that include cisplatin. Patients and Methods: 11 patients receiving chemotherapy including cisplatin (60-80 mg/m²) were included in the study. We performed 24-h urine collections and took blood samples on day 1 (before the initiation of chemotherapy) and days 2, 3, 4, and 8 in order to measure the carnitine concentrations in the serum and urine. These were compared with measures of self-reported fatigue. The primary endpoint was the change in self-reported fatigue subscales from baseline to day 8. Results: Urinary carnitine concentrations differed significantly on days 2 and 3 (p = 0.003). The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue scale version 4A score on day 8 indicated significantly higher levels of fatigue as compared to day 1 (p = 0.013). Conclusion: This study suggests that there is an association between urinary carnitine levels and self-reported fatigue.