Are Pain and Fatigue in Multiple Myeloma Related to Psychosocial Factors?: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND

Fatigue, pain, and psychological distress have been found to be among the most significant quality of life concerns for patients with multiple myeloma. Strong links between these variables have been found in other cancer populations.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to systematically review the research literature on the associations between psychosocial factors and pain and/or fatigue in patients with multiple myeloma.

INTERVENTIONS/

METHODS

The review followed PRISMA guidelines. A systematic search of 3 databases was conducted. Included studies were appraised for risk of bias. Data were extracted and combined in a narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

The review identified 11 studies for inclusion, reporting data from a total of 2432 participants. It found consistent evidence of a medium-sized relationship between both global distress and depression on the one hand and pain and fatigue on the other. The included studies were highly varied in the psychosocial factors they investigated.

CONCLUSIONS

There is good evidence that pain and fatigue are related to global distress and depression in patients with multiple myeloma. The evidence on relationships with other psychosocial factors is inconclusive. Research investigating the role of more specific psychosocial processes is called for.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Assessment of pain and fatigue in patients with multiple myeloma should routinely include screening for psychological distress. Interventions for psychological distress may be considered as adjuvant intervention strategies for pain and fatigue in patients with multiple myeloma.