Screening for Predictive Parameters Requiring Psycho-Oncological Intervention via the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Distress Thermometer in the Follow-Up of Uveal Melanoma Patients.

AIM: To assess a profile of uveal melanoma patients at risk of requiring active psycho-oncological intervention by employing the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) distress thermometer.

METHODS

Multivariate correlation and multiple linear regression analysis of data collected retrospectively from 106 consecutive patients suffering from uveal melanoma.

RESULTS

Distress levels correlated with practical (p = 0.01), emotional (p = 0.003) and physical problems (p = 0.001) as well as the total number of issues reported (p < 0.001; ANOVA, respectively). Emotional issues added up to 39% of influence on distress levels. Nervousness, worry and sadness as the most important emotional issues tested correlated significantly with anatomic stage, tumor T-category, metastatic status and time after primary diagnosis and were present more frequently in patients with higher distress levels (p < 0.001, p = 0.002, p = 0.004, respectively, Fisher's exact test). Pre-existing psycho-oncological support was more frequent in metastatic patients and patients with higher anatomic stage tumors (p = 0.008 and p = 0.003; Fisher's exact test).

CONCLUSION

The distress thermometer proved to be useful for rapid assessment of patients requiring active intervention. A higher number of distress items recorded correlated with elevated distress levels. Emotional issues were responsible for the majority of problems. A typical patient profile at risk of developing distress requiring close attention of caregivers includes high anatomic stage, high T-category, presence of metastases and early follow-up. Correct diagnosis and interpretation of distress-levels should help improve the quality of life of uveal melanoma survivors.

TRIAL REGISTRATION: Not applicable.