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Effects of weekly paclitaxel or paclitaxel plus carboplatin on functionality and symptoms of geriatric patients with cancer as measured by a brief geriatric oncology module
Author(s) -
Presant Cary A.,
Thompson Erin,
LeBerthon Brian,
Vergara Lori,
McGowen Priscilla
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
cancer
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.052
H-Index - 304
eISSN - 1097-0142
pISSN - 0008-543X
DOI - 10.1002/cncr.21090
Subject(s) - medicine , paclitaxel , carboplatin , geriatric oncology , chemotherapy , oncology , quality of life (healthcare) , cancer , psychological intervention , cisplatin , nursing
BACKGROUND To measure functionality, symptoms, and quality of life in elderly patients, a geriatric oncology module (GOM) was developed that could be rapidly and effectively administered in community oncology practices. METHODS The GOM was validated by semi structured patient interviews. The authors tested 26 patients receiving chemotherapy with paclitaxel or paclitaxel plus carboplatin to determine the effect of drug treatment on functionality, symptoms, and quality of life (QOL). RESULTS Chemotherapy stabilized or improved functionality, symptoms, and QOL in 75%, 86%, and 76% of patients, respectively. This GOM was easily implemented in a busy community oncology practice. CONCLUSIONS Weekly paclitaxel and paclitaxel plus carboplatin produced measurable palliation in geriatric oncology patients. This GOM may be useful in the assessment of specific chemotherapeutic interventions in elderly patients with cancer in community oncology practices. Cancer 2005. © 2005 American Cancer Society.